1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Ford Mustang
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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang 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 63 more horse power than 1981 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 261 kg more than 1981 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Mustang. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
