1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 2,007 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (64 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler 1609 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (130 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1977 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2007 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
