2007 Fiat Idea vs. 1979 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2007 Fiat Idea is newer by 28 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, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2007 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2007 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Fiat Idea weights approximately 50 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 1609.
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, 2007 Fiat Idea, 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, 2007 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609. 1979 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2007 Fiat Idea has manual transmission. 2007 Fiat Idea 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:
| 2007 Fiat Idea | 1979 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Fiat | Chrysler |
| Model | Idea | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1811 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
