1978 Opel Rekord vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 501 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (142 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Rekord | 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Opel | Chrysler |
| Model | Rekord | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2427 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1104 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 57 L |
