1968 Datsun 1800 vs. 2002 Mazda 2
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Datsun 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Datsun 1800 would be higher. At 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Datsun 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Datsun 1800 (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (78 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Datsun 1800 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 159 kg more than 1968 Datsun 1800.
Because 1968 Datsun 1800 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 1968 Datsun 1800. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 2, 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, 1968 Datsun 1800 (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1968 Datsun 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Datsun 1800 | 2002 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 1800 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2500 mm |
