1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2011 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2011 Ford Ranger is newer by 33 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Ranger (207 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Ford Ranger (322 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2011 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5171 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3193 mm |
