1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 580 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 2009 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1980 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1980 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Hyundai |
| Model | 1609 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2740 mm |
