2006 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Optra (108 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 610 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Chevrolet Optra (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Optra | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Optra | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2620 mm |
