2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1971 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 369 kg more than 1971 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda RX-2. (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2480 mm |
