2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Mazda 626
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda 626 (116 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 626 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Mazda 626 (184 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2183 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 184 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |