2006 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1979 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,811 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 104 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (148 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609. 1979 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Jetta | 1979 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chrysler |
| Model | Jetta | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1811 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1204 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
