1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 235 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 1978 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mazda RX-2 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | RX-2 | A |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2084 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1195 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2780 mm |