2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 944 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 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 626 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2520 mm |
