2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (151 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
