1970 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 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 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 44 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 204 kg more than 1970 Mazda RX-2.
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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1970 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mazda RX-2 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-2 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
