2002 Mazda 2 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 24 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 626 (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (78 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. 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, 2002 Mazda 2, 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, 1978 Mazda 626 (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda 2 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 2 | 626 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 78 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |