1971 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 35 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1971 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-2 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |
