2007 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (198 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 400 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 1976 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Volkswagen Passat | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chrysler |
| Model | Passat | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1812 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
