2006 Mazda Drifter vs. 2001 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Mazda Drifter is newer by 5 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 2,606 cc, 2006 Mazda Drifter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda Drifter (123 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda Drifter should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626.
Because 2006 Mazda Drifter 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 2006 Mazda Drifter. 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, 2006 Mazda Drifter (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda Drifter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda Drifter | 2001 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Drifter | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2606 cc | 1840 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 64 L |
