1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 4 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609. 2004 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
Model | 1609 | 3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1086 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |