1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2002 Mazda 2
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,811 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (78 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2. 2002 Mazda 2 has automatic transmission and 1979 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1979 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mazda 2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2002 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 1609 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1135 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 |
