1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 10 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 160 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 160 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 15 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 160.
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, 1988 Volkswagen Passat, 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler 160 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 160 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1780 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 | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2630 mm |
