1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
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, 2005 Mazda 3, 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 160 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
