1997 Oldsmobile Alero vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 390 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Oldsmobile Alero | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Oldsmobile | Mazda |
Model | Alero | 626 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3400 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 142 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |