2008 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1998 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 549 kg more than 1998 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, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe (335 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1998 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2188 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
