1998 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 1972 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mazda RX-4 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm.
Because 1972 Mazda RX-4 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-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Prizm will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Prizm | 1972 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Prizm | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
