1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2002 Mini Cooper 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 Mini Cooper (163 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
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 Mini Cooper, 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 Mini Cooper (210 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm). This means 2002 Mini Cooper 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 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | RX-2 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2470 mm |
