2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda 626 weights approximately 76 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
