1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2011 Ford Ka
To start off, 2011 Ford Ka is newer by 33 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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2011 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2011 Ford Ka. 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, 2011 Ford Ka, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Ka. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 2011 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | RX-2 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2310 mm |
