1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2007 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2007 Nissan 350Z is newer by 29 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 294 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, 2007 Nissan 350Z, 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, 2007 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2007 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | RX-2 | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1254 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2660 mm |
