1979 Buick Electra vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1979 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 210 kg more than 1979 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Buick Electra 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 1979 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Electra. (320 Nm). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Electra. 1979 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Buick Electra 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make Buick Chrysler
Model Electra PT Cruiser
Year Released 1979 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4942 cc 2425 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 3600 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 332 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1725 kg 1935 kg
Vehicle Length 5650 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 3030 mm 2620 mm