1972 BMW 3 vs. 1978 Chrysler 160
To start off, 1978 Chrysler 160 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 289 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 160. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 1978 Chrysler 160 | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 3 | 160 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
