1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 1971 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1978 Chrysler 160 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 160 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 160 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 160 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 1978 Chrysler 160 (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 160 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 160 | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
