1995 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 626. (161 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 246 kg more than 1995 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda 626. (217 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda 626 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 626 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2675 mm |
