1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 36 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, 2012 Mazda 2 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (59 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 2 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 2012 Mazda 2 has automatic transmission and 1976 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 1609 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1918 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2489 mm |
