1979 Ford Escort vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 550 kg more than 1979 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Ford Escort 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 Ford Escort. 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 (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1979 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1979 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Ford Escort 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make Ford Chrysler
Model Escort PT Cruiser
Year Released 1979 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 939 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 45 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 60 Nm 189 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4150 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 875 kg 1425 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2620 mm


 

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