1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 160 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 19 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 160 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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, both vehicles can yield 133 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler 160 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | 160 | Santana |
Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |