1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1986 Chrysler ES
To start off, 1986 Chrysler ES is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Chrysler ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Chrysler ES (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Chrysler ES should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Chrysler ES weights approximately 461 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Chrysler ES, 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, 1986 Chrysler ES (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1986 Chrysler ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1986 Chrysler ES | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Chrysler |
| Model | Sprite | ES |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 104 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2470 mm |
