1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva 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 2,007 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (64 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Meriva weights approximately 100 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, 2003 Vauxhall Meriva, 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 Vauxhall Meriva (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (130 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2003 Vauxhall Meriva | |
| Make | Chrysler | Vauxhall |
| Model | 1609 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2007 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2640 mm |
