1971 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1988 Toyota Carina
To start off, 1988 Toyota Carina is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1971 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1988 Toyota Carina. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Toyota Carina weights approximately 120 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Toyota Carina, 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, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota Carina. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mazda RX-2 | 1988 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-2 | Carina |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2530 mm |
