1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 is newer by 20 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, 1996 Proton 400 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Proton 400.
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, 1996 Proton 400, 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, 1996 Proton 400 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Proton |
| Model | 1609 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
