2001 Citroen C5 vs. 1978 Mazda 626

To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C5 (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen C5 weights approximately 553 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 Citroen C5, 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 Citroen C5 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2001 Citroen C5 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. 2001 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Citroen C5 1978 Mazda 626
Make Citroen Mazda
Model C5 626
Year Released 2001 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2946 cc 1768 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 207 HP 93 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.6 mm 88 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1548 kg 995 kg
Vehicle Length 4760 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1520 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2520 mm