2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1995 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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, 1995 Mazda 626 (161 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda 626 weights approximately 6 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 1995 Mazda 626 (217 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1995 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
