1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2002 Ford Focus
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 24 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Focus (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 110 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, 2002 Ford Focus, 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, 2002 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2002 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
