1982 Lancia Prisma vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2

To start off, 1982 Lancia Prisma is newer by 4 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 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1982 Lancia Prisma. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1982 Lancia Prisma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1982 Lancia Prisma. 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, 1982 Lancia Prisma, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lancia Prisma. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lancia Prisma.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Lancia Prisma 1978 Mazda RX-2
Make Lancia Mazda
Model Prisma RX-2
Year Released 1982 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1499 cc 2290 cc
Engine Type in-line dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 85 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 123 Nm 157 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 940 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 4190 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2480 mm