1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 1996 Renault Megane 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 30 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 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler 1609 | 1996 Renault Megane | |
Make | Chrysler | Renault |
Model | 1609 | Megane |
Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2590 mm |