1979 Chrysler 160 vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 29 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 1,639 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 160 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Chrysler 160 (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 160 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 86 kg more than 1979 Chrysler 160.
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, 2008 Ford Focus, 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, 1979 Chrysler 160 (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Chrysler 160 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 160 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 160 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1171 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
