1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1989 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Tempo 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 54 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 268 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1989 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2540 mm |
