1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 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 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 98 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.
Let's talk about torque, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
