1985 Mazda 626 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 626. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 327 kg more than 1985 Mazda 626. 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, 2010 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 626. (157 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 626 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
