1997 Mazda 323 vs. 1990 Mazda 626
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1990 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 626. (135 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 1990 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
