1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 290 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Mazda 626 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1987 | 2006 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |