1979 Chrysler 160 vs. 1998 Opel Meriva
To start off, 1998 Opel Meriva 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 1,685 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Meriva weights approximately 308 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, 1998 Opel Meriva, 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, 1998 Opel Meriva (185 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 160. (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 160 | 1998 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | 160 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2740 mm |
