1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2009 Dodge Charger
To start off, 2009 Dodge Charger is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Charger (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Charger should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Charger weights approximately 272 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Dodge Charger (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2009 Dodge Charger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | Valiant | Charger |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3518 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3050 mm |
