1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 333 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Chrysler 160 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make Chrysler Chrysler
Model 160 PT Cruiser
Year Released 1978 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1639 cc 2429 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 89 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 133 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1085 kg 1418 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2620 mm


 

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