1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 34 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 82 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 1609 | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2330 mm |
