2003 Mazda 2 vs. 1972 ZAZ 966
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 2 (79 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1972 ZAZ 966. (27 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1972 ZAZ 966. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 2 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1972 ZAZ 966. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 ZAZ 966 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 ZAZ 966. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 2003 Mazda 2 (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 ZAZ 966. (52 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 ZAZ 966.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 1972 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Mazda | ZAZ |
| Model | 2 | 966 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 885 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 54.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2170 mm |
