1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1973 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1980 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-2.
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, 1973 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 1973 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 1609 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
