1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 31 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-2 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2340 mm |
