2008 Mazda 6 vs. 1976 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (212 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 6 (268 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 1976 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2968 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 268 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
