1976 Chrysler 160 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler 160 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 315 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 160. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler 160 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 1976 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 160. (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 160 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 160 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2651 mm |
