1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1995 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1995 Opel Vectra is newer by 17 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Opel Vectra (99 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Opel Vectra weights approximately 180 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, 1995 Opel Vectra, 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, 1995 Opel Vectra (149 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1995 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 1995 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | 1609 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
