2011 Mazda Tribute vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2011 Mazda Tribute is newer by 33 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda Tribute (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 344 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, 2011 Mazda Tribute, 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, 2011 Mazda Tribute (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda Tribute | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | 626 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1514 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4442 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1806 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1783 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2619 mm | 2520 mm |
