1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2002 Ford Focus
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 22 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 64 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, 2002 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 2002 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 1609 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
