1988 Mazda 626 vs. 1991 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX (279 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 463 kg more than 1988 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1991 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1991 Nissan 300 ZX (376 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 626 | 1991 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 626 | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 279 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
