2009 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1974 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 714 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe, 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, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe (343 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1974 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2188 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1824 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
