1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2003 Ford Focus
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 27 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 108 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Focus weights approximately 35 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
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, 2003 Ford Focus, 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, 2003 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2003 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 59 L |
