1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2008 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 427 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, 2008 Kia Spectra, 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 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2008 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | 160 | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
