1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1994 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1994 Lotus Esprit is newer by 18 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1994 Lotus Esprit (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1994 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1994 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | 1609 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
