1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1985 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1985 Ford Tempo 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (100 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Tempo weights approximately 40 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
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 Tempo, 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 Tempo (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 1985 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 1976 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1985 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2540 mm |
