1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 18 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 615 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 1997 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2840 mm |
