1976 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima is newer by 36 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 402 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, 2012 Nissan Altima, 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima 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 | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | RX-4 | Altima |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 349 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1512 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4595 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1796 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2675 mm |