1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1997 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1997 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 21 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 2,007 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Suzuki Samurai (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (64 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1997 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Chrysler 1609. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 (130 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1997 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Chrysler | Suzuki |
| Model | 1609 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2007 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2490 mm |
