1989 Honda Civic vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1989 Honda Civic is newer by 17 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 28 more horse power than 1989 Honda Civic. (90 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Civic.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Honda Civic, 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Civic | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
