1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 1995 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1995 Lotus Esprit is newer by 17 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Esprit (301 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 230 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1995 Lotus Esprit (380 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1995 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 1995 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Lotus |
| Model | 160 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
