2005 Ford Ranger vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 2005 Ford Ranger is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Ranger (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Ranger weights approximately 298 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Ford Ranger (250 Nm) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ranger | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 818 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2320 mm |
