1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Opel Commodore
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,783 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1976 Opel Commodore. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 133 kg more than 1976 Opel Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Opel Commodore 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 1976 Opel Commodore. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Opel Commodore. (216 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
