1997 Lancia Zeta vs. 1980 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1997 Lancia Zeta is newer by 17 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lancia Zeta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia Zeta (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Zeta should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 550 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, 1997 Lancia Zeta, 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, 1997 Lancia Zeta (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 1609. 1980 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1997 Lancia Zeta has manual transmission. 1997 Lancia Zeta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Zeta | 1980 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Lancia | Chrysler |
| Model | Zeta | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2670 mm |
