1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2001 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2001 Opel Speedster is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Speedster (144 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 192 kg more than 2001 Opel Speedster.
Because 2001 Opel Speedster 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 2001 Opel Speedster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2001 Opel Speedster (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2001 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 626 | Speedster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 948 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
