2004 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 114 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Volkswagen Golf | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
Model | Golf | 626 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |