1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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, 2008 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 180 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 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | 160 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
