2009 Mazda 2 vs. 1979 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1979 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 2 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1979 Mazda RX-2.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2, 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, 1979 Mazda RX-2 (158 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 1979 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2480 mm |
