1991 BMW 318 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1991 BMW 318 is newer by 13 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, 1991 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW 318 weights approximately 280 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, 1991 BMW 318 (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 318 | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
