1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fairlane. (124 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 46 kg more than 1981 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Fairlane 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 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1981 Ford Fairlane (296 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4092 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2950 mm |
