2009 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Chrysler 160
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 31 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 160. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 440 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 160. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 160.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1978 Chrysler 160 | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | M3 | 160 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1639 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
