1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2008 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 20 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 Ford Fiesta, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fiesta. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2008 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2490 mm |
