1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 18 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 60 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, 1996 Opel Astra, 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, 1996 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler 1609 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
Make | Chrysler | Opel |
Model | 1609 | Astra |
Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |