1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2004 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Toyota MR2 is newer by 8 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota MR2 (142 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2004 Toyota MR2.
Because 2004 Toyota MR2 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 2004 Toyota MR2. 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, 2004 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2004 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 626 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 91.5 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 | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
