2006 Honda Element vs. 1973 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2006 Honda Element is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Honda Element weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-2 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 1973 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element, 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, 2006 Honda Element (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Honda Element | 1973 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
