1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 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, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 65 kg more than 1972 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, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-2 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |