2001 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Mazda 626
To start off, 2002 Mazda 626 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda 323 (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 626 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2001 Mazda 323.
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, 2001 Mazda 323 (167 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 626. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 323 | 2002 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
