1995 Mazda 626 vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1995 Mazda 626 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda 626 (161 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (149 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda 626 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda RX-7 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 1989 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Mazda 626 (217 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (186 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda 626 | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
