1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler 160 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Chrysler 160 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chrysler 160 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 283 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 160.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Chrysler 160 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
Model | 160 | Golf |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 84 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1368 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4534 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2578 mm |