1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 26 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (121 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 540 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, 2004 Opel Vectra, 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | 160 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
