1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 35 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (59 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 392 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2011 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 2011 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1976 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | 1609 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1918 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2776 mm |
