1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1979 Isuzu 117
To start off, 1979 Isuzu 117 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 2,236 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu 117. (72 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Isuzu 117 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Isuzu 117 (139 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1979 Isuzu 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 1979 Isuzu 117 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Isuzu |
| Model | 1609 | 117 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2236 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
