1970 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2002 Acura CL

To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1970 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 620 kg more than 1970 Mazda RX-2. 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, 2002 Acura CL, 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mazda RX-2. 2002 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1970 Mazda RX-2 has manual transmission. 1970 Mazda RX-2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Mazda RX-2 2002 Acura CL
Make Mazda Acura
Model RX-2 CL
Year Released 1970 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2292 cc 3210 cc
Engine Type dual-disk rotary V
Horse Power 118 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6900 RPM
Torque 157 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.4:1 9.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 960 kg 1580 kg
Vehicle Length 4150 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1580 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2580 mm