1971 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1998 Mitsubishi SST
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi SST is newer by 27 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, 1998 Mitsubishi SST (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi SST should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi SST weights approximately 310 kg more than 1971 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Mitsubishi SST, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi SST (296 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi SST will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mazda RX-2 | 1998 Mitsubishi SST | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | RX-2 | SST |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
