1988 Renault 21 vs. 1977 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1988 Renault 21 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Chrysler 1609 (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1988 Renault 21. (64 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 21 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1977 Chrysler 1609.
Because 1977 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 1977 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 21, 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, 1977 Chrysler 1609 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 21. (118 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1977 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 21. 1977 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1988 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Renault 21 | 1977 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Renault | Chrysler |
| Model | 21 | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2670 mm |
