2005 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 241 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 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Chrysler 1609. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Passat | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chrysler |
| Model | Passat | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
