1996 Mazda RX-01 vs. 1974 Mazda 818
To start off, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda RX-01 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1974 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda 818 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 1974 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, 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, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-01 | 1974 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-01 | 818 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2320 mm |
