2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Ford Taunus

To start off, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 295 kg more than 1976 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 Ford Taunus 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 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser (188 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1976 Ford Taunus
Make Chrysler Ford
Model PT Cruiser Taunus
Year Released 2000 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1996 cc 1993 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 151 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 188 Nm 149 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1410 kg 1115 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2590 mm