1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Camaro
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Camaro is newer by 16 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Camaro (426 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 337 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 677 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Camaro 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 2012 Chevrolet Camaro. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Camaro (569 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 424 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Camaro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2012 Chevrolet Camaro | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | 626 | Camaro |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 426 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 569 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1867 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4836 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1918 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1389 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2852 mm |
