1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1979 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 115 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1979 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Cavalier | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1811 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
