1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 626 weights approximately 181 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Mazda 626 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2329 mm |