2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 678 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-4 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1974 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1974 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
