2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1993 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1993 Mazda 626. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda 626 weights approximately 123 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda 626. (172 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1993 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 65 L |
