1989 Ford Probe vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe 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 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 290 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
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, 1989 Ford Probe, 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, 1989 Ford Probe (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2480 mm |
