2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (140 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 533 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. 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, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (190 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 64.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
