1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 19 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 1,712 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 135 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler 1609 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
Make | Chrysler | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 1609 | 146 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1712 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2550 mm |