1983 Maserati 420 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1983 Maserati 420 is newer by 5 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 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Maserati 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Maserati 420 (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Maserati 420 weights approximately 220 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1983 Maserati 420 (308 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 Maserati 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Maserati 420 | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | 420 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 308 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
