1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 174 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 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 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-2 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2650 mm |
