2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 148 kg more than 1999 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 64 L |
