1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2002 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Astra 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Vauxhall Astra (187 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 315 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 Vauxhall Astra, 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 Vauxhall Astra (255 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2002 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Vauxhall |
| Model | 1609 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
