2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 23 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 2,424 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 605 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 626 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
