1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2005 Pontiac Sunfire
To start off, 2005 Pontiac Sunfire 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Pontiac Sunfire (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 176 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, 2005 Pontiac Sunfire, 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 Pontiac Sunfire (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2005 Pontiac Sunfire | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | 160 | Sunfire |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
