2002 Mazda 626 vs. 1997 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2002 Mazda 626 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 626 weights approximately 183 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
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, 2002 Mazda 626 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 626 | 1997 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 626 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
