1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2003 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 25 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, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Idea weights approximately 68 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, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2003 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | 1609 | Idea |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1158 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2550 mm |
