1992 Mazda 626 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda 626 (165 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 626 weights approximately 219 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Mazda 626 (221 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1992 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1992 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 626 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
