2009 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 30 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (100 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 134 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus.
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, 2009 Ford Focus, 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 Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 1609. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 1609. 1979 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus 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:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1979 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Ford | Chrysler |
| Model | Focus | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1811 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
