1988 BMW 316 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1988 BMW 316 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 880 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
