2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1995 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 626. (161 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda 626 weights approximately 75 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, 1995 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, 1995 Mazda 626 (217 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1995 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 166 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
