1973 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2011 BMW 125
To start off, 2011 BMW 125 is newer by 38 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 125 weights approximately 625 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 BMW 125 (271 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 125 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 | 2011 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | RX-2 | 125 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2670 mm |
