Hey guys, ever wondered about the Mazda 626 from way back in 1985? This ride was quite the head-turner back in its day, and even now, it holds a special place in the hearts of many car enthusiasts. Let’s dive deep into what made the 1985 Mazda 626 tick, exploring everything from its engine specs to its interior comforts.

Engine and Performance

When we talk about the Mazda 626, the engine is where it all begins. The 1985 model typically came with a couple of engine options, depending on the market and specific trim. The most common engine was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was known for its reliability and smooth performance, making it a solid choice for everyday driving. Power output was generally around 82 horsepower, which might not sound like much by today's standards, but it was pretty decent for a car of that era. The engine also produced about 108 lb-ft of torque, providing enough grunt for city driving and comfortable highway cruising.

For those looking for a bit more pep in their step, some markets offered a turbocharged version of the 2.0-liter engine. This boosted the power output significantly, pushing it closer to the 120-130 horsepower range. The turbo version added a fun, sporty element to the Mazda 626, making it an attractive option for drivers who wanted a little extra excitement. The turbocharged engine not only increased horsepower but also improved torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and better overall performance.

The 1985 Mazda 626 usually came with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed automatic transmission. The manual gearbox was favored by driving enthusiasts for its direct feel and greater control, allowing drivers to extract the most performance from the engine. The automatic transmission, on the other hand, provided convenience and ease of use, particularly in urban driving conditions. Both transmissions were designed to complement the engine's characteristics, ensuring a balanced driving experience.

Fuel efficiency was also a key consideration for buyers back in 1985. The Mazda 626 delivered reasonable fuel economy for its class, with the naturally aspirated engine achieving around 22-25 mpg in the city and 28-32 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged version, while offering more power, would naturally consume more fuel, with figures slightly lower than the standard engine. Overall, the Mazda 626 struck a good balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for many drivers.

Exterior Design

The exterior of the 1985 Mazda 626 was characterized by its clean lines and aerodynamic styling, which was quite modern for the time. The car featured a sleek, low-slung profile with a distinctive front fascia that included rectangular headlights and a chrome grille. The overall design was intended to convey a sense of sophistication and elegance, setting it apart from some of its more boxy competitors. The Mazda 626 was available in several body styles, including a four-door sedan, a five-door hatchback, and a two-door coupe, offering versatility to suit different needs and preferences.

The sedan version was the most popular, offering a good balance of passenger space and practicality. It featured a spacious cabin and a generously sized trunk, making it suitable for families and those who needed to carry luggage or cargo. The hatchback version provided even more cargo space, thanks to its versatile rear opening. This made it a favorite among those who needed to transport larger items or equipment. The coupe version was the sportiest of the three, with a more aggressive roofline and a sleeker overall appearance. It was aimed at drivers who wanted a stylish and fun-to-drive car.

Several exterior features added to the Mazda 626's appeal. These included chrome accents around the windows and door handles, body-colored bumpers, and stylish alloy wheels on some trims. The car was also available in a range of attractive colors, from classic whites and silvers to more vibrant reds and blues. The attention to detail in the exterior design helped the Mazda 626 stand out in a crowded market and contributed to its overall popularity.

The 1985 Mazda 626 also incorporated some advanced aerodynamic features for its time. These included a sloping hood, a rear spoiler on some models, and carefully designed body panels to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. These features not only enhanced the car's appearance but also contributed to its overall performance and handling.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 1985 Mazda 626, you’d find an interior designed with comfort and practicality in mind. The cabin was surprisingly spacious, offering ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats were well-padded and supportive, making long journeys more comfortable. The overall layout was functional and user-friendly, with controls and instruments logically arranged for easy access.

The dashboard featured a clear and concise instrument cluster, providing essential information such as speed, engine RPM, fuel level, and temperature. The center console housed the radio and climate controls, which were simple and straightforward to operate. Depending on the trim level, the Mazda 626 could be equipped with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a premium sound system. These features added to the overall comfort and convenience of the car.

The materials used in the interior were of decent quality for the time. The seats were typically upholstered in cloth or vinyl, depending on the trim level. The dashboard and door panels were made of durable plastic, which was easy to clean and maintain. While the interior might not have been luxurious by today's standards, it was well-appointed and functional, providing a comfortable environment for drivers and passengers.

Storage space was also a key consideration in the design of the Mazda 626's interior. The car featured a glove compartment, door pockets, and a center console storage bin for stowing small items. The trunk was also generously sized, providing ample space for luggage and cargo. The hatchback version offered even more versatility, with a fold-down rear seat that could be used to create a larger cargo area. All these features made the Mazda 626 a practical choice for families and those who needed to transport a variety of items.

Safety Features

In 1985, safety features in cars were not as advanced as they are today, but the Mazda 626 did offer some important safety features for its time. These included three-point seatbelts for front and rear occupants, which were a significant improvement over the lap belts that were common in older cars. The car also featured a reinforced body structure designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Energy-absorbing bumpers were also included to minimize damage in low-speed impacts.

While airbags were not yet standard equipment in most cars in 1985, some higher-end versions of the Mazda 626 may have been available with driver-side airbags as an option. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were also not common at the time, but they may have been offered as an option on some models. Overall, the Mazda 626 provided a reasonable level of safety for its era, incorporating features that were designed to protect occupants and minimize the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

Reliability and Maintenance

The 1985 Mazda 626 was generally regarded as a reliable car, but like any vehicle of that age, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. The engine was known for its durability, but it needed regular oil changes, tune-ups, and other routine maintenance tasks to ensure optimal performance. The transmission was also generally reliable, but it needed periodic fluid changes and inspections to prevent problems.

One of the key maintenance items for the Mazda 626 was the timing belt, which needed to be replaced at regular intervals to prevent engine damage. Other important maintenance tasks included checking and replacing the brakes, tires, and suspension components as needed. Keeping the car properly maintained was essential for ensuring its longevity and reliability.

Market Value and Collectibility

Today, the 1985 Mazda 626 is considered a classic car, and its value depends on its condition, mileage, and originality. Well-preserved examples can fetch a decent price among collectors and enthusiasts. The rarity of certain models, such as the turbocharged version or the two-door coupe, can also increase their value.

If you're considering buying a 1985 Mazda 626, it's important to do your research and inspect the car thoroughly before making a purchase. Look for signs of rust, damage, or neglect, and be sure to check the car's maintenance history. A well-maintained Mazda 626 can be a fun and rewarding classic car to own, but it's important to be prepared for the challenges of maintaining an older vehicle.

Conclusion

The 1985 Mazda 626 was a well-rounded and capable car that offered a good balance of performance, comfort, and reliability. Its stylish design, spacious interior, and reasonable fuel economy made it a popular choice among buyers in its day. While it may not have the advanced technology and safety features of modern cars, it still holds a special place in automotive history. For those who appreciate classic cars, the 1985 Mazda 626 is definitely worth a look.