1987 Mazda 626 vs. 1973 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1987 Mazda 626 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 626 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1973 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 1973 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, 1973 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 1973 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 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 | 1120 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 |
