1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1976 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,918 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 511 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Chrysler |
| Model | Sprite | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1918 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2670 mm |
