2009 Mazda 6 vs. 1973 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 288 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 1973 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
