1979 Chrysler 160 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 160 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 47 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 160. (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 160 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 160 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| 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 | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
