1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2000 Kia Clarus
To start off, 2000 Kia Clarus is newer by 21 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, 2000 Kia Clarus (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Kia Clarus should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Kia Clarus weights approximately 130 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, 2000 Kia Clarus, 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, 2000 Kia Clarus (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2000 Kia Clarus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2000 Kia Clarus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | 1609 | Clarus |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
