2004 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 200 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 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (183 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm). This means 2004 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Elantra | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
