2003 GMC Sonoma vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2003 GMC Sonoma 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 GMC Sonoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 GMC Sonoma (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 GMC Sonoma should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 GMC Sonoma weights approximately 300 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 GMC Sonoma 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 GMC Sonoma 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 GMC Sonoma (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 GMC Sonoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 GMC Sonoma | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | GMC | Mazda |
| Model | Sonoma | 626 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2520 mm |
