2001 Mazda 626 vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 626 | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 48 L |
