2009 Chevrolet Spark vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Spark is newer by 31 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Spark. (66 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Spark. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Spark, 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, 1978 Chrysler 1609 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Spark | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Spark | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2670 mm |
