1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2005 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2005 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 108 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.
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, 2005 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-2 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2340 mm |
