2001 Mazda MPV vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 Mazda MPV 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MPV (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MPV weights approximately 430 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 Mazda MPV, 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 Mazda MPV (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MPV | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MPV | 626 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
