1999 Peugeot 605 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 1999 Peugeot 605 is newer by 21 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Peugeot 605 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Peugeot 605 (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Peugeot 605 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Peugeot 605 weights approximately 270 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, 1999 Peugeot 605, 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, 1999 Peugeot 605 (180 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Peugeot 605 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Peugeot 605 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Mazda |
| Model | 605 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
