1974 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-4 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6, 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, 2002 Mazda 6 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda RX-4 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-4 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
