1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 32 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 2,000 cc, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 694 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2919 mm |
