1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 28 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), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 225 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, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Focus (197 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| 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 | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
