1961 Citroen 2CV vs. 1970 Mazda RX-2

To start off, 1970 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1970 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (10 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1961 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1961 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Mazda RX-2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Citroen 2CV, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1970 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Citroen 2CV. (22 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1970 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Citroen 2CV.

Compare all specifications:

1961 Citroen 2CV 1970 Mazda RX-2
Make Citroen Mazda
Model 2CV RX-2
Year Released 1961 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 375 cc 2292 cc
Engine Type boxer dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 10 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 3500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 22 Nm 157 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 7.5:1 9.4:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 495 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 3790 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2480 mm