2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1972 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (119 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1972 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 150 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 1972 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hyundai Elantra. (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1972 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1972 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Elantra | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2480 mm |
