1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1968 Saab Sonett
To start off, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Saab Sonett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Saab Sonett would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1968 Saab Sonett. (64 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1968 Saab Sonett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1968 Saab Sonett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Saab Sonett, 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Saab Sonett. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Saab Sonett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda RX-2 | 1968 Saab Sonett | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | RX-2 | Sonett |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2160 mm |
