2008 Chrysler 300 vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Chrysler 300 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler 300 (340 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 273 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Chrysler 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 626. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler 300 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, 2008 Chrysler 300 (529 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626. 2008 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler 300 | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 300 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1463 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2620 mm |
