1983 Ford Orion vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Mazda 626 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Orion would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1997 Mazda 626 (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Orion | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Orion | 626 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
