1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 8 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 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 160 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 160 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 1986 Ford Escort, 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 160 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 160 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
