2004 BMW 318 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 32 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, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 420 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.
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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
