1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2008 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 30 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, 1978 Chrysler 160 (89 HP) has 35 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (54 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 160 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. 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, 2008 Fiat 500, 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, 2008 Fiat 500 (146 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2008 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Fiat |
| Model | 160 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 54 HP |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |
