1999 BMW 318 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 27 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 2 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
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, 1999 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
