1973 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1987 Toyota Celica
To start off, 1987 Toyota Celica is newer by 14 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, 1987 Toyota Celica (148 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Toyota Celica should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Toyota Celica weights approximately 325 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-2. 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, 1987 Toyota Celica, 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, 1987 Toyota Celica (180 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Toyota Celica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-2 | 1987 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-2 | Celica |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2530 mm |
