2009 Ford Escape vs. 1976 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 33 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 2,975 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 159 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape.
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, 2009 Ford Escape, 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, 2009 Ford Escape (302 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 1976 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Ford | Chrysler |
| Model | Escape | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 1980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6550 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 91.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
