1976 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2001 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 Mazda 626 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 626 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1976 Mazda RX-4 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 1976 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 626, 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, 1976 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-4 | 2001 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-4 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
