2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 887 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 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626. 2008 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2620 mm |
