1978 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Chevrolet Caprice weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1978 Chevrolet Caprice 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 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1978 Chevrolet Caprice (280 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1978 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet Caprice | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Caprice | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
