1976 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 974 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 Volkswagen Routan, 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 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-4 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3078 mm |
