2008 Lexus LS vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Lexus LS 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 4,608 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus LS (380 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus LS weights approximately 775 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 LS (493 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus LS | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | LS | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4608 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 380 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 493 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2520 mm |
