1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1988 Honda Accord

To start off, 1988 Honda Accord is newer by 10 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 1,955 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Honda Accord (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Honda Accord weights approximately 25 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 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 1978 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Honda Accord, 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, 1988 Honda Accord (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1988 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Chrysler 1609 1988 Honda Accord
Make Chrysler Honda
Model 1609 Accord
Year Released 1978 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1639 cc 1955 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 133 Nm 166 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1090 kg 1115 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2610 mm