1992 Mazda 626 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 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 53 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 626 weights approximately 259 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 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 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 626 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
