2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 626 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 142 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1170 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |