2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1987 Mazda 626
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 168 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1987 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2580 mm |
