2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2000 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 545 kg more than 2000 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 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 (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2000 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1837 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1785 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
