1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 95 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.
Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (151 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2639 mm |
