1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Ford Flex
To start off, 2012 Ford Flex is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Flex weights approximately 608 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler Valiant 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 Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Flex, 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 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Ford Flex | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Valiant | Flex |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 2028 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5126 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2995 mm |
