2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1993 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1993 Mazda 626. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda 626 weights approximately 115 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, 1993 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda 626. (172 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1993 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
