2009 Kia Sportage vs. 1976 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1976 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sportage (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage, 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, 1976 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Sportage. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1976 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Sportage.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Sportage | 1976 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
