1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2006 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 28 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1777 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, 2006 Ford Explorer, 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2006 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 160 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 2862 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2890 mm |
