1973 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2012 BMW 128
To start off, 2012 BMW 128 is newer by 39 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 128 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, 2012 BMW 128 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 128 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 | 2012 BMW 128 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | RX-2 | 128 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 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 | 4374 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1412 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2659 mm |
