2000 Mazda 626 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 626.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Mazda 626 (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda 626 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 50 L |
