2000 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 12 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 160 kg more than 2000 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda 626 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 626 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
