1977 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1977 Chrysler 1609. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1977 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 1977 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Chrysler 1609 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
Model | 1609 | Elan |
Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2260 mm |