1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 35 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 395 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, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | RX-2 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1796 cc |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 190 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 | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
