1979 Chrysler 160 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 745 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.

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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 160. (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 160.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Chrysler 160 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Chrysler Mercedes-Benz
Model 160 SL
Year Released 1979 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1639 cc 3197 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 89 HP 224 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 132 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1085 kg 1830 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2520 mm