1992 Mazda 626 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 17 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 626. (165 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 626 weights approximately 159 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 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 2009 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 626 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| 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 | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
