1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2013 Fiat 500
To start off, 2013 Fiat 500 is newer by 35 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, 2013 Fiat 500 (101 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Fiat 500 weights approximately 16 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, 2013 Fiat 500, 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, both vehicles can yield 133 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2013 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | 1609 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3547 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1627 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2300 mm |
