1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 30 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 328 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 1609 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
