1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Altima (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Altima weights approximately 484 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, 2010 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (219 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | 1609 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2776 mm |
