1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2010 Ford Focus
To start off, 2010 Ford Focus is newer by 32 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, 2010 Ford Focus (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford Focus weights approximately 230 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, 2010 Ford Focus, 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, 2010 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Ford Focus 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 | 2010 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-2 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4445 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1722 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1488 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2614 mm |
