1996 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Chrysler 160
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 54 kg more than 1980 Chrysler 160. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Chrysler 160. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chrysler 160. (132 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1980 Chrysler 160 | |
| Make | Audi | Chrysler |
| Model | A3 | 160 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2680 mm |
