2012 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 275 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 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609. 1978 Chrysler 1609 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer 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:
| 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Chrysler |
| Model | Lancer | 1609 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2400 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4572 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1491 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2634 mm | 2670 mm |
