2009 Mazda 2 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 1,714 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 2 (102 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis weights approximately 340 kg more than 2009 Mazda 2.
Because 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 136 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | Iltis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2110 mm |
