2006 Pontiac Montana vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Montana is newer by 28 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Montana (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Montana should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Pontiac Montana weights approximately 895 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, 2006 Pontiac Montana, 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, 2006 Pontiac Montana (293 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Montana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Pontiac Montana | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Chrysler |
| Model | Montana | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 293 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2670 mm |
