2002 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 2002 Ford Fiesta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Fiesta (99 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2002 Ford Fiesta.
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, both vehicles can yield 145 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 626 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2620 mm |
