1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2001 Renault Megane
To start off, 2001 Renault Megane is newer by 25 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2001 Renault Megane.
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, 2001 Renault Megane, 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, 2001 Renault Megane (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2001 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Chrysler | Renault |
| Model | 1609 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
