1987 Mazda 626 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1987 Mazda 626 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda 626 (116 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 626 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mazda RX-4 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 1972 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Mazda 626 (184 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Mazda 626 | 1972 Mazda RX-4 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | RX-4 |
Year Released | 1987 | 1972 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2183 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 184 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |