1981 Austin Marina vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 561 kg more than 1981 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Austin Marina 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 1981 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Marina | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Austin | Chrysler |
| Model | Marina | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1441 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
