1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1995 Opel Astra
To start off, 1995 Opel Astra is newer by 19 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1995 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1995 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 84 kg more than 1995 Opel Astra. 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, 1995 Opel Astra, 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 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1995 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | 1609 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1008 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
