1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 10 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 1986 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
