1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1982 Nissan Silvia
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 Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Nissan Silvia 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 52 more horse power than 1982 Nissan Silvia. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1982 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 436 kg more than 1982 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Nissan Silvia 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 Silvia. 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Nissan Silvia. (147 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 Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1982 Nissan Silvia | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Silvia |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
