1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 33 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 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 505 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, 2005 Mazda 6, 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 6 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 | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-2 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2630 mm |
