1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2004 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2004 Citroen Xsara is newer by 25 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), 2004 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Citroen Xsara. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 275 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
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, 2004 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2004 Citroen Xsara (206 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2004 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Chrysler | Citroen |
| Model | 1609 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| 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 | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2770 mm |
