1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1988 Dodge Spirit
To start off, 1988 Dodge Spirit is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Spirit (141 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 254 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (232 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 1988 Dodge Spirit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | 1609 | Spirit |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1354 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |
