1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1994 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1994 Lancia Thema is newer by 14 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Lancia Thema (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Lancia Thema weights approximately 262 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, 1994 Lancia Thema, 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, 1994 Lancia Thema (178 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1994 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 1994 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lancia |
| Model | 1609 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2670 mm |
