1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 626 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
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 | 1190 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |