1974 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 31 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 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 381 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, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-4 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2965 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1491 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
