1973 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1973 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1973 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1973 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-2 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-2 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
