1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 450 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.
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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-2 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2290 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 171 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2340 mm |