1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2005 Scion xA
To start off, 2005 Scion xA 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Scion xA (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Scion xA should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2005 Scion xA.
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 Scion xA, 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 Scion xA (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Scion xA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2005 Scion xA | |
| Make | Chrysler | Scion |
| Model | 1609 | xA |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2380 mm |
