1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1982 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Nissan Laurel 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 48 more horse power than 1982 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1982 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 376 kg more than 1982 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Nissan Laurel 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 1982 Nissan Laurel. 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Nissan Laurel. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Nissan Laurel. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1982 Nissan Laurel has manual transmission. 1982 Nissan Laurel 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 | 1982 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
