1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2006 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,292 cc (2 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (120 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda Cosmo should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 2 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 1981 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 2, 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, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 2. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 2. 2006 Mazda 2 has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda Cosmo has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda Cosmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda 2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2006 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Cosmo | 2 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
