2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Chrysler 160
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 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 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (151 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 535 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 160. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Chrysler 160 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 160 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
