1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1971 Nissan Skyline

To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (136 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1971 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 298 kg more than 1971 Nissan Skyline. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Nissan Skyline 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 1971 Nissan Skyline. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Nissan Skyline.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1971 Nissan Skyline
Make Chrysler Nissan
Model PT Cruiser Skyline
Year Released 1998 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2429 cc 1989 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 136 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 220 Nm 180 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 5600 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1418 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2650 mm