1978 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 415 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler 1609 | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | 1609 | Jetta |
Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2651 mm |