1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1978 Chrysler 160
To start off, 1983 Austin Maestro is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Austin Maestro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Austin Maestro (109 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chrysler 160 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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, 1983 Austin Maestro (178 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 1978 Chrysler 160 | |
| Make | Austin | Chrysler |
| Model | Maestro | 160 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2680 mm |
