1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 27 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 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 255 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, 2005 Opel Astra, 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, 2005 Opel Astra (230 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | 1609 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1908 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2610 mm |
