1959 BMW 700 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 700 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 2292 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2480 mm |
