1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1990 Ford Probe
To start off, 1990 Ford Probe is newer by 12 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Ford Probe (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Ford Probe weights approximately 160 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, 1990 Ford Probe, 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, 1990 Ford Probe (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 1990 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2530 mm |
