1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1980 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 16 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 1,812 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 100 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1980 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Chrysler |
| Model | 145 | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2670 mm |
