1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2009 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2009 Fiat Panda is newer by 29 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 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Fiat Panda weights approximately 25 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
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, 2009 Fiat Panda, 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, 1980 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 2009 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | 1609 | Panda |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2310 mm |
