1978 Chrysler 160 vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 35 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 453 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, 2013 Kia Optima, 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler 160 | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | 160 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2795 mm |
