2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 412 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
