2008 Land Rover Defender vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Land Rover Defender 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 2,495 cc, 2008 Land Rover Defender is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Land Rover Defender weights approximately 700 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626.
Because 2008 Land Rover Defender is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Land Rover Defender will offer significantly more control. 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 Land Rover Defender (301 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Land Rover Defender will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 2008 Land Rover Defender has manual transmission. 2008 Land Rover Defender will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Land Rover Defender | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Land Rover | Mazda |
| Model | Defender | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1970 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 79 HP |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1170 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
