1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1980 Ford Escort is newer by 4 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 182 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
