2012 Citroen C3 vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 34 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, 2012 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C3 weights approximately 162 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, 2012 Citroen C3, 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, 2012 Citroen C3 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Citroen C3 | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Citroen | Chrysler |
| Model | C3 | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1252 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
