1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1984 Chrysler Laser
To start off, 1984 Chrysler Laser is newer by 8 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 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Chrysler Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Chrysler Laser (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (59 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Chrysler Laser should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1984 Chrysler Laser.
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, 1984 Chrysler Laser, 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, 1984 Chrysler Laser (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1984 Chrysler Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1984 Chrysler Laser | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | 1609 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1918 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
