2002 Mazda 626 vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2002 Mazda 626 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 626 weights approximately 182 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1981 Mazda RX-7 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 1981 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mazda 626 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 626 | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
