1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2009 Mazda 2
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 33 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 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 2 weights approximately 229 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
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, 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, 2009 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2009 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 1609 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2500 mm |
