1998 Lada Samara II vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1998 Lada Samara II is newer by 22 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 1,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Lada Samara II. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lada Samara II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1998 Lada Samara II. 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, 1998 Lada Samara II, 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, 1976 Chrysler 1609 (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lada Samara II. (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lada Samara II. 1976 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 1998 Lada Samara II has manual transmission. 1998 Lada Samara II will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lada Samara II | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Lada | Chrysler |
| Model | Samara II | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2680 mm |
