1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2008 Fiat Grande Punto
To start off, 2008 Fiat Grande Punto is newer by 30 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 15 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Grande Punto. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Grande Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat Grande Punto weights approximately 80 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, 2008 Fiat Grande Punto, 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, 2008 Fiat Grande Punto (190 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Grande Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2008 Fiat Grande Punto | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | 1609 | Grande Punto |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
