1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2006 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2006 Ford Fiesta is newer by 27 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, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 10 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, 2006 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2006 Ford Fiesta (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 2006 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2490 mm |
