1986 Mazda 626 vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 25 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 626. (117 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 626.
Because 2011 Nissan Frontier 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 2011 Nissan Frontier. 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 626. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 626 | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 626 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3200 mm |
