1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2. 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, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda RX-2 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-2 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2650 mm |
