1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 1977 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1981 Ford Fiesta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1977 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 1977 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2480 mm |
