1988 Mazda 626 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1013 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 667 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 626. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 626 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 626 | S |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2720 mm |
