1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2009 Lada Niva
To start off, 2009 Lada Niva is newer by 31 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 1,688 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Lada Niva. (81 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lada Niva weights approximately 195 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Because 2009 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chrysler 1609. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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 2009 Lada Niva. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2009 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lada |
| Model | 1609 | Niva |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1688 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2210 mm |
