1989 Mazda 626 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1989 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 626 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
