1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 34 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 780 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Mazda | Buick |
| Model | RX-2 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2837 mm |
