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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 6500 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. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 42 kg more than 2000 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Mazda 626 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Mazda 626 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2000 Mazda 626 (392 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2000 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2000 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 392 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 74 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 58 L |
