1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2009 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Opel Astra is newer by 33 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Astra weights approximately 138 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, 2009 Opel Astra, 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, 2009 Opel Astra (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2009 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | 1609 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
