1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,798 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (194 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 157 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, 2009 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609. 2009 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1978 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2009 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 3798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3080 mm |
