1996 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1989 Mazda 626
To start off, 1996 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 113 kg more than 1989 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, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 626. 1996 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Elantra | 1989 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | 626 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1233 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2580 mm |
