2008 Lexus GS vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Lexus GS 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 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus GS (242 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus GS weights approximately 745 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.
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, 2008 Lexus GS (294 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus GS | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | GS | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
