1998 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1998 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 20 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 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626.
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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata (181 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1998 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
Model | Sonata | 626 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |