1986 Mazda 323 vs. 1988 Mazda 626
To start off, 1988 Mazda 626 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mazda 626 weights approximately 262 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323. 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, 1988 Mazda 626 (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 323 | 1988 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 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 | 860 kg | 1122 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
