2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 120 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm). This means 2001 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:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
