1977 Alpine A 442 vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1978 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Alpine A 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Alpine A 442 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Alpine A 442 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1977 Alpine A 442.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1978 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1977 Alpine A 442 has manual transmission. 1977 Alpine A 442 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Alpine A 442 | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Alpine | Chrysler |
| Model | A 442 | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1090 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2670 mm |
