2003 Renault Megane vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 230 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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Renault | Chrysler |
| Model | Megane | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2670 mm |
