1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 23 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 2,349 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 305 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 1609 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 2349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2570 mm |
