1979 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2008 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1979 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Prius.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Prius, 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, 1979 Mazda RX-2 (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda RX-2 | 2008 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-2 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2710 mm |
