1978 Chrysler Avenger vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 1,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Avenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 2 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 2 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler Avenger 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 Avenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mazda 2 (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Avenger. (96 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Avenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Avenger | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Avenger | 2 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2500 mm |
