1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 34 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 525 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Chrysler | BMW |
| Model | 160 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2497 mm |
