2004 Kia Sportage vs. 1998 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Kia Sportage is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Sportage (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626.
Because 2004 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Sportage will offer significantly more control. 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 Kia Sportage (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Sportage | 1998 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
