2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (59 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 6 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (109 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
