1954 Opel Rekord vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1978 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1954 Opel Rekord. (44 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1954 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1954 Opel Rekord. 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. 1978 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1954 Opel Rekord has manual transmission. 1954 Opel Rekord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Opel Rekord | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Opel | Chrysler |
| Model | Rekord | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2670 mm |
