1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 26 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 3,349 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (175 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (59 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 189 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2002 Pontiac Grand Am (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1976 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2002 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | 1609 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1918 cc | 3349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1414 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2730 mm |
