2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Ford Capri
To start off, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Capri (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Capri should accelerate faster than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 180 kg more than 1981 Ford Capri.
Because 1981 Ford Capri 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 1981 Ford Capri. 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, 1981 Ford Capri (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Capri |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
