2011 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 33 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (432 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1130 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 567 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chrysler |
| Model | CL | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 432 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5095 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1872 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1417 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2954 mm | 2670 mm |
