2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1971 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 825 kg more than 1971 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
