2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 160 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Ford Focus (197 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
