1999 Mazda 626 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 626 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 626 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 50 L |
