2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1992 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 626. (165 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 626 weights approximately 159 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Mazda 626 (221 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1992 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 74 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
