1970 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 42 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1970 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 524 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mazda RX-2 | 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-2 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1351 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2576 mm |
