1998 Toyota Camry vs. 1978 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 1998 Toyota Camry is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Tercel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Tercel would be higher. At 2,164 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Toyota Camry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Toyota Camry (135 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Toyota Camry should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Tercel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Toyota Camry weights approximately 545 kg more than 1978 Toyota Tercel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Toyota Camry (196 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (102 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Toyota Camry will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Tercel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Toyota Camry | 1978 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Camry | Tercel |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2164 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1560 mm |
