1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,129 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix (173 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 374 kg more than 1997 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, 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626. 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 626 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3129 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1564 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3110 mm |
