A Brief Look at the Mazda 626
The History and Evolution of the Mazda 626: An In-Depth Look
Mazda has always been at the forefront of innovation in the automobile industry. The Mazda 626 series is a testament to the automaker’s commitment to producing high-quality, reliable cars that stand the test of time. The Mazda 626 has gone through a number of changes over the years, all aimed at improving the design and functionality of the vehicle.
First Generation Mazda 626 (1979-1982)
The first Mazda 626 was introduced in 1979 as a compact vehicle and was marketed as a replacement for the Mazda 616. It was available in three different body styles: the sedan, the hatchback, and the coupe.
The first generation Mazda 626 was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 75 horsepower, which was later revised to produce 80 horsepower. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission or an optional three-speed automatic transmission. The first generation Mazda 626 also featured front-wheel drive, rack-and-pinion steering, and independent front and rear suspension.
Second Generation Mazda 626 (1983-1987)
The second generation Mazda 626 was introduced in 1983 and was completely redesigned. The car was larger than its predecessor and was offered in a sedan and hatchback body style. The second generation Mazda 626 was also the first car in its class to offer a diesel engine.
The second generation Mazda 626 was available with either a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine or a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The naturally aspirated engine produced 85 horsepower, while the turbocharged engine produced 120 horsepower. The car was also available with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Third Generation Mazda 626 (1988-1992)
The third generation Mazda 626 was introduced in 1988 and featured a more aerodynamic design. The car was available in a sedan body style and was powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 110 horsepower. The engine was paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
The third generation Mazda 626 was also available as a hatchback, but only in Japan. The hatchback was powered by the same 2.2-liter engine and was available with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Fourth Generation Mazda 626 (1993-1997)
The fourth generation Mazda 626 was introduced in 1993 and was completely redesigned. The car was available in a sedan and hatchback body style and was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 118 horsepower or a 2.5-liter V6 engine that produced 164 horsepower. The engines were paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
In 1996, the Mazda 626 underwent a minor facelift. The facelift included a revised grille, headlights, and taillights, as well as a new dashboard.
Fifth Generation Mazda 626 (1998-2002)
The fifth generation Mazda 626 was introduced in 1998 and featured a more refined and sophisticated design. The car was available in a sedan body style and was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 130 horsepower or a 2.5-liter V6 engine that produced 170 horsepower. The engines were paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
In 2000, the Mazda 626 underwent a major facelift. The facelift included a revised grille, headlights, and taillights, as well as a new interior.
Sixth Generation Mazda 626 (2003-2007)
The sixth generation Mazda 626 was introduced in 2003 and was the last generation of the Mazda 626. The car was available in a sedan body style and was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 125 horsepower or a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 160 horsepower. The engines were paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
The Mazda 626 was discontinued in 2007, but it left a lasting legacy in the automobile industry. The Mazda 626 was a popular car for families and young professionals, and it was known for its reliability, durability, and affordability.
RunBidSell Insights
The Mazda 626 was a staple in Mazda’s lineup for over two decades. From its humble beginnings in 1979 to its discontinuation in 2007, the Mazda 626 underwent numerous changes and improvements, all aimed at making the car the best it could be. With its reliable performance, sleek style, and affordable price tag, the Mazda 626 left a lasting impression on the automobile industry and on those who owned and drove it.