1987 Mazda 626 III Coupe (GD) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The wheelbase of the Mazda 626 III Coupe (GD) is approximately 2,460 mm (96.9 inches), which was fairly standard for mid-size coupes in the late 1980s. A wheelbase of this length strikes a balance between sporty handling and interior comfort. Compared to other coupes from the same period, it offers competitive rear legroom and front passenger space, although being a 2-door coupe, rear passenger access and space are naturally more limited. This wheelbase length allowed Mazda to provide agile handling characteristics while still accommodating a reasonably spacious cabin for its class.

The Mazda 626 III Coupe typically has a curb weight in the range of 1,100 to 1,200 kg (2,425 to 2,645 lbs), depending on the specific engine and trim variant. This relatively light weight for a mid-size coupe enhances its nimble handling and acceleration response. The lighter curb weight also contributes positively to fuel efficiency, making the coupe a practical choice for both spirited driving and daily use. However, exact values can vary depending on added equipment or specific engine choices offered during the production years 1987 to 1991.

Yes, the Mazda 626 III Coupe (GD) fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. With a length of about 4,350 mm (171.3 inches) and a width of 1,645 mm (64.8 inches), this coupe is smaller than many modern vehicles, which means it should easily fit within typical garage dimensions that often range around 6,000 mm (236 inches) long and 3,000 mm (118 inches) wide. Its lower height of approximately 1,280 mm (50.4 inches) also ensures plenty of vertical clearance inside most garages, making it convenient for storage and protecting the car from the elements.

The Mazda 626 III Coupe (GD) introduced more modern styling and slightly larger dimensions compared to its predecessor, the Mazda 626 II. While the overall length and width increased slightly, the design was focused on improved aerodynamics and a sporty appearance with sharper lines and a more streamlined profile. Interior packaging was optimized to improve passenger comfort with a longer wheelbase. These changes yielded a more refined coupe with enhanced road presence and interior space without significantly increasing overall bulk. The evolution represented Mazda's move toward combining sportiness with everyday usability.

The Mazda 626 III Coupe’s dimensions are comparable to other mid-size coupes of the late 1980s such as the Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, and Ford Probe. Typically, these models also ranged between 4,200 mm to 4,500 mm (165 to 177 inches) in length and around 1,600 mm to 1,700 mm (63 to 67 inches) in width. The 626 coupe's moderately compact footprint made it competitive in terms of maneuverability and style while offering a practical blend of sporty handling and everyday usability, similar to its peers in the segment. It often stood out for its balanced combination of size, comfort, and engaging driving dynamics.

The Mazda 626 III Coupe (GD) has a driver-focused interior layout typical of a two-door coupe. Front headroom is approximately 1,000 mm (39.4 inches), and front legroom is generous for the segment, providing comfortable seating for taller occupants. Rear headroom and legroom are more limited due to the coupe's sloping roofline, generally offering around 860 mm (33.9 inches) of headroom and limited legroom, making the rear seats more suitable for short trips or children. The interior space balances style and comfort, focusing on the driver and front passenger, which is common for coupes of the era.

The Mazda 626 III Coupe has a modest trunk capacity, typical for mid-size two-door coupes from the late 1980s. The trunk space is approximately 300 to 350 liters (10.6 to 12.4 cubic feet), which allows for everyday grocery shopping, luggage for weekend trips, or smaller cargo loads. While it doesn't offer the same cargo versatility as a sedan or hatchback, the trunk is well-shaped and accessible, making it practical enough for daily errands and recreational use, but larger cargo or bulky items will require folding rear seats or assistance.

The Mazda 626 III Coupe (GD) was equipped with a range of inline-four gasoline engines, typically between 1.8 and 2.0 liters in displacement. These engines produced modest power outputs suited to the vehicle’s weight of approximately 1,100 to 1,200 kg (2,425 to 2,645 lbs). This combination provided a good balance between fuel economy and spirited driving, with enough torque to make the relatively light coupe feel responsive. The 626 III’s size and weight helped keep performance nimble, making it an enjoyable option for drivers wanting sporty looks without sacrificing daily usability and efficiency.

During its production from 1987 to 1991, the Mazda 626 III Coupe was built with solid engineering principles typical of Mazda’s reputation for reliability and build quality. While safety standards of the era didn't include modern features such as airbags as standard across all models, the coupe did often feature reinforced body structures and basic safety components like seat belts with pretensioners. Compared to peers, it held its own in crash protection and overall durability. Its build quality contributed to long-lasting use, appealing to drivers seeking a reliable yet stylish coupe in the compact to mid-size segment.