1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Holden Cruze
To start off, 2006 Holden Cruze is newer by 9 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, 1997 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 Holden Cruze. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2006 Holden Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2006 Holden Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Holden Cruze is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Holden Cruze will offer significantly more control. 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 626 (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Holden Cruze. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Holden Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 2006 Holden Cruze | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | 626 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |
