2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 626 weights approximately 38 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 1999 Mazda 626 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| 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 | 1202 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
