2004 Mazda 6 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (119 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6, 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 1972 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
