2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 25 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 390 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Mustang (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 423 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609. 1978 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
Make | Ford | Chrysler |
Model | Mustang | 1609 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1639 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 556 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |