2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 31 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626.
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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 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:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 626 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |