1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 625 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
Make | Ford | Chrysler |
Model | Fiesta | PT Cruiser |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4150 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 57 L |