1980 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 33 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 361 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 2013 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2013 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chrysler 1609 | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1609 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1812 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2803 mm |
