1999 Mazda 626 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 Mazda 626 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 626 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
