1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 3 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) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1979 Volkswagen Passat, 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2007 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
