1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1980 Fiat Panda
To start off, 1980 Fiat Panda is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,811 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1980 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Fiat Panda, 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, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 1980 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | 1609 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 33 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 57 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2170 mm |
