2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 would be higher. Both 2009 Mazda 3 and 1998 Mazda 626 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 37 kg more than 1998 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1998 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2620 mm |
