1986 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 26 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 626. (117 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 318 kg more than 1986 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 626. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 626 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1082 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2651 mm |
