1972 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 10 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda RX-2 | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-2 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |
