1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2003 Ford Ka
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 25 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 160 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 179 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
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, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 2003 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2003 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 160 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |
