1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1988 Ford Escort
To start off, 1988 Ford Escort is newer by 12 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) has 33 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1988 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, 1988 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1988 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
