Hey guys! Ever wondered about the nitty-gritty details of the Imazda 626 from way back in '94? Well, you've come to the right place. Let's dive deep into the specs and everything you need to know about this classic ride. Whether you're a car enthusiast, a potential buyer, or just curious, this guide has got you covered.

Overview of the Imazda 626 (1994)

The Imazda 626 model from 1994 was a significant player in the mid-size sedan market. Known for its reliability, comfort, and balanced performance, it catered to a wide range of drivers. Before we get into the detailed specs, it's crucial to understand the context in which this car was released. In the early '90s, the automotive industry was focusing on improving fuel efficiency, safety features, and overall driving experience. The 626 aimed to deliver on all these fronts, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike.

Key Features and Market Position: The Imazda 626 stood out due to its sleek design, spacious interior, and a range of engine options that provided a good mix of power and economy. It competed with other popular sedans of the time, such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Taurus. However, the 626 had its unique appeal, particularly in its driving dynamics and overall build quality. Imazda aimed to offer a car that was not only practical but also enjoyable to drive, which set it apart from some of its competitors.

Why This Car Still Matters: Even though it's nearly three decades old, the Imazda 626 (1994) still holds a special place in the hearts of many car enthusiasts. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its solid engineering and timeless design. Many owners have kept their 626s running smoothly through regular maintenance, and spare parts are still reasonably available. Plus, it's a great option for those looking for an affordable and reliable used car. Understanding the specs helps you appreciate the engineering that went into this model and what made it a standout vehicle in its time.

Engine Specs

The heart of any car is its engine, and the Imazda 626 (1994) offered a couple of options to suit different driving preferences. The most common engine was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, known for its reliability and decent fuel economy. There was also a 2.5-liter V6 engine available for those who wanted a bit more power under the hood. Let's take a closer look at each.

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine: This engine was the workhorse of the Imazda 626 lineup. It provided a good balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for daily commuting and longer trips. The engine typically produced around 118 to 120 horsepower, which was respectable for its class at the time. The torque figures were also decent, providing enough low-end grunt for city driving. Fuel economy was a strong point, with many owners reporting around 25-30 mpg combined.

• Engine Code: FS-DE
• Displacement: 1991 cc (2.0 liters)
• Horsepower: 118-120 hp
• Torque: Approximately 120-125 lb-ft
• Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection

2.5-Liter V6 Engine: For those who craved more power, the 2.5-liter V6 engine was the way to go. This engine offered a smoother and more refined driving experience, with significantly more horsepower and torque. It was perfect for highway driving and provided quicker acceleration. However, the trade-off was slightly lower fuel economy compared to the four-cylinder engine. Expect around 20-25 mpg combined.

• Engine Code: KL-DE
• Displacement: 2497 cc (2.5 liters)
• Horsepower: 164 hp
• Torque: Approximately 160 lb-ft
• Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection

Maintenance and Reliability: Both engines were known for their reliability, but like any car, regular maintenance is key. Common maintenance tasks include oil changes, spark plug replacements, and timing belt services. The V6 engine, in particular, requires more attention to the timing belt due to its complexity. Overall, with proper care, both engines can provide many years of reliable service.

Transmission Specs

The Imazda 626 (1994) came with a choice of two transmissions: a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. The manual transmission was favored by driving enthusiasts for its greater control and engagement, while the automatic transmission offered convenience, especially in city traffic. Let's break down the details.

5-Speed Manual Transmission: The 5-speed manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience, allowing drivers to extract the most out of the engine's power. It was also generally more fuel-efficient than the automatic transmission. The gear ratios were well-suited to the engine's characteristics, providing good acceleration and comfortable cruising speeds. The manual transmission was a popular choice for those who enjoyed a more hands-on driving experience.

• Type: Manual
• Gears: Five forward gears, one reverse
• Shift Pattern: Standard H-pattern
• Clutch Type: Single dry plate

4-Speed Automatic Transmission: The 4-speed automatic transmission was designed for convenience and ease of use. It provided smooth and seamless gear changes, making it ideal for daily commuting and long drives. While it might not have been as fuel-efficient as the manual transmission, it offered a more relaxed driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The automatic transmission was a popular choice for those who prioritized comfort and convenience.

• Type: Automatic
• Gears: Four forward gears, one reverse
• Torque Converter: Yes
• Shift Modes: Standard Drive mode

Which Transmission is Better?: The choice between the manual and automatic transmissions ultimately depends on personal preference. If you enjoy a more engaging driving experience and want better fuel economy, the manual transmission is the way to go. However, if you prioritize convenience and comfort, especially in city traffic, the automatic transmission is a better choice. Both transmissions were reliable, but regular maintenance, such as fluid changes, is essential to keep them running smoothly.

Suspension and Brakes

The Imazda 626 (1994) was designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride, thanks to its well-engineered suspension system. The car featured an independent suspension on all four wheels, which helped to improve handling and ride quality. The braking system was also robust, providing reliable stopping power in various conditions.

Suspension System: The independent suspension system consisted of MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear. This configuration allowed each wheel to react independently to road imperfections, resulting in a smoother and more controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to provide a good balance between comfort and handling, making the 626 enjoyable to drive on both city streets and highways.

• Front Suspension: MacPherson struts with coil springs and anti-roll bar
• Rear Suspension: Multi-link independent suspension with coil springs and anti-roll bar
• Dampening: Hydraulic shock absorbers

Braking System: The Imazda 626 (1994) came standard with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Some models also offered an optional anti-lock braking system (ABS), which further enhanced safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The braking system was designed to provide reliable stopping power, and regular maintenance, such as brake pad replacements and fluid checks, was essential to keep it in top condition.

• Front Brakes: Disc brakes
• Rear Brakes: Drum brakes
• ABS: Optional anti-lock braking system

Handling and Ride Quality: Overall, the Imazda 626 (1994) offered a comfortable and stable ride. The independent suspension system helped to absorb road imperfections, while the braking system provided reliable stopping power. The car was also relatively easy to handle, thanks to its well-balanced chassis and responsive steering. Whether you were commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the 626 provided a pleasant driving experience.

Dimensions and Weight

Understanding the dimensions and weight of the Imazda 626 (1994) can give you a better sense of its size and how it handles on the road. These specifications are also useful for comparing it to other vehicles in its class.

Exterior Dimensions:

• Wheelbase: Approximately 102.8 inches (2611 mm)
• Length: Approximately 186.8 inches (4745 mm)
• Width: Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
• Height: Approximately 55.1 inches (1400 mm)

Weight: The curb weight of the Imazda 626 (1994) varied depending on the engine and transmission options. Generally, the four-cylinder models weighed around 2,800 to 3,000 pounds (1,270 to 1,360 kg), while the V6 models were slightly heavier.

• Curb Weight (2.0L): Approximately 2,800 - 3,000 lbs (1,270 - 1,360 kg)
• Curb Weight (2.5L): Approximately 3,000 - 3,200 lbs (1,360 - 1,451 kg)

Impact on Performance: The dimensions and weight of the Imazda 626 (1994) played a significant role in its handling and performance. The relatively lightweight construction helped to improve fuel economy and acceleration, while the balanced weight distribution contributed to its stable handling. These factors made the 626 a well-rounded and enjoyable car to drive.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the Imazda 626 (1994), you'll find a functional and comfortable interior designed with the driver and passengers in mind. While it may not have the luxurious features of modern cars, it offered a pleasant and practical space for daily use.

Seating and Space: The Imazda 626 (1994) could comfortably seat five adults. The front seats were supportive and offered decent adjustability, while the rear seats provided ample legroom and headroom for passengers. The overall interior space was generous for a mid-size sedan, making it suitable for families and long trips.

• Seating Capacity: Five adults
• Front Legroom: Approximately 43.3 inches
• Rear Legroom: Approximately 36.2 inches

Features and Amenities: Depending on the trim level, the Imazda 626 (1994) came with a variety of features and amenities. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels might have included upgrades such as a sunroof, leather seats, and a premium sound system.

• Standard Features: Air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, basic audio system
• Optional Features: Sunroof, leather seats, premium sound system

Ergonomics and Design: The interior design of the Imazda 626 (1994) was simple and functional. The controls were logically laid out and easy to reach, making it easy for the driver to operate the vehicle. The materials used were durable and of decent quality, although they might show signs of wear and tear in older models. Overall, the interior was designed to provide a comfortable and practical driving experience.

Conclusion

The Imazda 626 (1994) was a well-rounded and reliable mid-size sedan that offered a good balance of performance, comfort, and fuel economy. Whether you're a car enthusiast, a potential buyer, or just curious about this classic ride, understanding its specs can help you appreciate its engineering and enduring appeal. From its engine options to its suspension and interior features, the 626 was designed to provide a pleasant and practical driving experience. So, next time you see an Imazda 626 from '94, you'll know exactly what makes it a standout vehicle.