1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1997 TVR Speed 12
To start off, 1997 TVR Speed 12 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 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (800 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 692 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Speed 12 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 123 kg more than 1997 TVR Speed 12.
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, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 722 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Speed 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 1997 TVR Speed 12 | |
| Make | Chrysler | TVR |
| Model | 1609 | Speed 12 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 7730 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 800 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 881 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
