1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1986 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2340 mm |
