2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser (140 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fairlane. (138 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 247 kg more than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1988 Ford Fairlane 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 1988 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1988 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (190 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1988 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 4089 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2950 mm |
