1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2010 Kia Forte
To start off, 2010 Kia Forte is newer by 13 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Kia Forte weights approximately 38 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, 2010 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2010 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 2010 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 626 | Forte |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4300 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2649 mm |
