2009 Ford Mustang vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2009 Ford Mustang 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Mustang weights approximately 150 kg more than 1978 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, 2009 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Mustang | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 434 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
