1999 Mazda 626 vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 626 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
