2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport is newer by 26 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport weights approximately 755 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, 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport 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. 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Trans Sport | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Trans Sport | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2520 mm |
