2000 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1974 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2000 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Hyundai Sonata (134 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-2. (119 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 436 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-2 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 RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2000 Hyundai Sonata (171 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Hyundai Sonata | 1974 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Sonata | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1396 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
