1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2001 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Samurai 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 1,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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, 2001 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 (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2001 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Chrysler | Suzuki |
| Model | 1609 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2490 mm |
