1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (248 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 535 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 2011 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Chrysler 1609. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 2011 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
