2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 626 weights approximately 113 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
