1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 590 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 Mazda 5, 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 Mazda 5 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 5 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 Mazda 5 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | RX-2 | 5 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1615 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2751 mm |