1977 Mazda RX-2 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 65 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-2 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-2 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2270 mm |
