2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 62 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 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, 2003 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Cavalier | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 1980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 91.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 65 L |
