1979 Chrysler 160 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 212 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, 2011 Mazda 3, 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler 160. (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 160 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 160 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
