2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1985 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 626. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 111 kg more than 1985 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 626. (157 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1985 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1036 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
