1991 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1991 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,858 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1991 Ford Escort. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1991 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Ford Escort, 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, 1991 Ford Escort (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Escort | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Ford | Chrysler |
| Model | Escort | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
