1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 36 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Forte weights approximately 243 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, 2012 Kia Forte, 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, 2012 Kia Forte (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 2012 Kia Forte 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. 2012 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | 1609 | Forte |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2649 mm |
