2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2001 Mazda 626
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 152 kg more than 2001 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2001 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 626 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |