1992 BMW 540 vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1992 BMW 540 is newer by 16 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 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (59 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (126 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 540 | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 1918 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
