1953 BMW 340 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 BMW 340 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1953 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1953 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 BMW 340 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 BMW 340 | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 340 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2480 mm |
