1986 Mazda 626 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 626. (117 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mazda 626 weights approximately 122 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 626. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Mazda 626 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 117 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 171 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1082 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |