2009 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2009 Daihatsu Copen 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 3 more horse power than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 240 kg more than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. 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 Daihatsu Copen, 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (120 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. 1978 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2009 Daihatsu Copen has manual transmission. 2009 Daihatsu Copen will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Daihatsu Copen | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Chrysler |
| Model | Copen | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2670 mm |
