1998 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2006 Porsche Cayman is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,392 cc, 2006 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Porsche Cayman (295 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Porsche Cayman weights approximately 221 kg more than 1998 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Porsche Cayman is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Porsche Cayman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 626, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Porsche Cayman (340 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626. 2006 Porsche Cayman has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Porsche Cayman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 626 | 2006 Porsche Cayman | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 626 | Cayman |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
