1976 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda 6 (120 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 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 (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mazda RX-4 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-4 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 168 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
