1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1985 Ford Escort
To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 9 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 1,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Escort (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort.
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, 1985 Ford Escort, 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, 1985 Ford Escort (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1985 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
