1981 Chrysler Avenger vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 700 kg more than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Chrysler Avenger 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 Chrysler Avenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL, 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. 2002 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1981 Chrysler Avenger has manual transmission. 1981 Chrysler Avenger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chrysler Avenger | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Acura |
| Model | Avenger | CL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 93 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2580 mm |
