1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2000 Honda Civic
To start off, 2000 Honda Civic is newer by 22 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, both vehicles can yield 89 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Honda Civic weights approximately 35 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
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, 2000 Honda Civic, 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, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Honda Civic. (125 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2000 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Chrysler | Honda |
| Model | 1609 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |
