1979 Chrysler 160 vs. 1990 Dodge Spirit
To start off, 1990 Dodge Spirit is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 2,211 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Dodge Spirit (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 231 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 160. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1990 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 160. (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1990 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 160 | 1990 Dodge Spirit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | 160 | Spirit |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2211 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2630 mm |
