2002 Lexus IS vs. 1976 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 440 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 1976 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
