1998 Mitsubishi Diamante vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante (238 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante weights approximately 460 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Diamante | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Chrysler |
| Model | Diamante | 1609 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
