1988 Lada Samara vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 1988 Lada Samara is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lada Samara (70 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 818 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lada Samara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Lada Samara (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Lada Samara | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
Make | Lada | Mazda |
Model | Samara | 818 |
Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 68 HP |
Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 117 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2320 mm |