2001 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 29 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, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe (134 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 630 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.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe, 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, 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
