2008 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 30 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 380 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, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 2008 Ford Focus (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Focus | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | 626 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1768 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 93 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |