1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 1985 Saab 9000
To start off, 1985 Saab 9000 is newer by 7 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Saab 9000 (173 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Saab 9000 weights approximately 315 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.
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, 1985 Saab 9000, 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, 1985 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1985 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 1985 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Saab |
| Model | 160 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
