1973 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 8 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 43 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Santana weights approximately 30 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-2.
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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mazda RX-2 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | RX-2 | Santana |
Year Released | 1973 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2560 mm |