2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2000 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda 626 weights approximately 111 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2000 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 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Mazda 626 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 | 626 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2000 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |