1977 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1977 Chrysler 1609. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1977 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 15 kg more than 1977 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chrysler 1609 | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2512 mm |
