1988 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1970 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1988 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 257 kg more than 1970 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Hyundai Sonata | 1970 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2480 mm |
