The Mazda Capella, branded as the 626 in key regions, was a mid-size car produced by Mazda from 1970 to 2002. Recognized as the Capella in Japan and the Mazda 626 globally, the model enjoyed popularity and recognition across diverse markets. Notably, Ford, a strategic partner of Mazda during the vehicle's production, utilized the Capella's platform to design the Ford Telstar and Ford Probe models. The total sales of the 626 and Telstar variants worldwide amounted to an impressive 4,345,279 units, demonstrating the appeal and success of the Capella line-up.
As a direct competitor to other renowned mid-size Japanese cars like the Honda Accord, Toyota Corona, and Nissan Bluebird, the