2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 6,690 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (350 HP @ 3013 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 172 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram 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 2009 Dodge Ram. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Dodge Ram (827 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 682 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6690 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3013 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 827 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2440 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2620 mm |
