1989 BMW Z1 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1989 BMW Z1 is newer by 11 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW Z1 weights approximately 290 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z1 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
