1977 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1160 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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 T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-4 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-4 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
