1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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 97 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 576 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (97 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort 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 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1608 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
