1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 22 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 3,952 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 996 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 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 2009 Nissan Frontier. 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, 2009 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 626 | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 2316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3200 mm |
