1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1994 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1994 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 202 kg more than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1994 Ford Thunderbird 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 1994 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1994 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1994 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
