2009 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 590 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609. 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 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609. 1978 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2009 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2009 Hyundai Sonata 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 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
Make | Hyundai | Chrysler |
Model | Sonata | 1609 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1639 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |