Germany vs Japan — 1962 vs 1974
| 1300 GT Frua Coupe | RX-4 Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 75 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 80 lb-ft | 119 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,290 cc | 1,308 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 103 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,874 lbs | 2,535 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,250 mm | 2,510 mm |
| Length | 4,170 mm | 4,530 mm |
| Units Produced | 5,491 | 86,522 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,795 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1962 Glas 1300 GT Frua Coupe excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1974 Mazda RX-4 Coupe stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 1962 Glas 1300 GT Frua Coupe against the 1974 Mazda RX-4 Coupe is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Germany versus Japan. The 1974 Mazda RX-4 Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 110 hp compared to 75 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Glas 1300 GT uses a Inline-4 OHC displacing 1,290 cc, while the Mazda RX-4 relies on a Rotary (Wankel) 13B with 1,308 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Mazda RX-4 Coupe edges ahead at 9.8 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Glas 1300 GT carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 661 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5,491 units built, the 1962 Glas 1300 GT Frua Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Mazda RX-4's 86,522 examples. On the collector market, the 1962 Glas 1300 GT Frua Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1974 Mazda RX-4 Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.