1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette
To start off, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette is newer by 25 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette (184 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette weights approximately 785 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, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette, 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, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette 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 | 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | RX-2 | Silhouette |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 3350 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2850 mm |
