2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,786 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (140 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 158 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Mustang 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 1978 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1978 Ford Mustang (192 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (190 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1978 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
