1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2010 Ford Ka
To start off, 2010 Ford Ka is newer by 32 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 2010 Ford Ka. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2010 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2010 Ford Ka. 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, 2010 Ford Ka, 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, 2010 Ford Ka (145 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2010 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1247 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 | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2310 mm |
