1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2008 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 36 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 2. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 2 weights approximately 6 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
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, 2008 Mazda 2, 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 2. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda RX-2 | 2008 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-2 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 137 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 | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2500 mm |
