1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1986 Nissan Leopard
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 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Nissan Leopard 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 1986 Nissan Leopard. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1986 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 341 kg more than 1986 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Nissan Leopard 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 1986 Nissan Leopard. 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 1986 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Nissan Leopard. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1986 Nissan Leopard has manual transmission. 1986 Nissan Leopard 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 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Leopard |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| 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 | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
