1971 Chevrolet Vega vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 45 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Vega | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Vega | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2480 mm |
