2005 Opel Zafira vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 Opel Zafira 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Zafira (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Zafira weights approximately 370 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, 2005 Opel Zafira, 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, 2005 Opel Zafira (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Zafira | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Zafira | 626 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2520 mm |
