1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1998 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,918 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (59 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 234 kg more than 1998 Mazda 121.
Because 1976 Chrysler 1609 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 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121, 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 Chrysler 1609 (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 121. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1998 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 1609 | 121 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1918 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2460 mm |
