2009 Ford S-Max vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Ford S-Max 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford S-Max (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford S-Max weights approximately 553 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.
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 S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford S-Max | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | S-Max | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1743 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2620 mm |
