1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 626 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1306 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |