1983 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 3,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1983 Chevrolet Caprice. (114 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1983 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 235 kg more than 1983 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1983 Chevrolet Caprice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1983 Chevrolet Caprice (237 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1983 Chevrolet Caprice has automatic transmission and 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Chevrolet Caprice will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Chevrolet Caprice 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make Chevrolet Chrysler
Model Caprice PT Cruiser
Year Released 1983 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3753 cc 2397 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 237 Nm 224 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1815 kg
Vehicle Length 5390 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1920 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1610 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2620 mm