2002 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1977 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe (139 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 630 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1977 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 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 | 1850 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
