1987 Mazda 626 vs. 1986 Mazda 323
To start off, 1987 Mazda 626 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 626 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323. 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, 1987 Mazda 626 (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 1986 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1071 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
