1992 Mazda 626 vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 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 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 626. (165 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 106 kg more than 1992 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. 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 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 626 | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
