1972 Fiat 126 vs. 1973 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1973 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1972 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1973 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 126 | 1973 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 126 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 652 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 42 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3130 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2480 mm |
