1986 Dodge Charger vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1986 Dodge Charger is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1986 Dodge Charger. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1986 Dodge Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1986 Dodge Charger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Dodge Charger, 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, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Dodge Charger. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Dodge Charger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Dodge Charger | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Dodge | Chrysler |
| Model | Charger | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1592 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2670 mm |
