2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1995 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda 626 (161 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda 626 weights approximately 41 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. 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, 1995 Mazda 626 (217 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1995 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1225 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
