2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 224 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus.
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, 2009 Ford Focus (185 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
