1971 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 33 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, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 360 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, 2004 Saturn L, 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, 2004 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn L 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 | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-2 | L |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2630 mm |
