1973 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-2 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 69 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1977 Volkswagen Golf, 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 @ 3500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mazda RX-2 | 1977 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-2 | Golf |
Year Released | 1973 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |