1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Acura TL
To start off, 2012 Acura TL is newer by 15 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Acura TL (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TL weights approximately 500 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, 2012 Acura TL (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626. 2012 Acura TL 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. 2012 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 2012 Acura TL | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | 626 | TL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4928 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2776 mm |
