1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 32 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 221 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
