1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 2004 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda 626 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 626 | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |