1973 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 3 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 180 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, 1991 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2480 mm |
