2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1980 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 328 kg more than 1980 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 1980 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1980 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Mazda | Chrysler |
| Model | RX-8 | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
