2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 22 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 754 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.
Because 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
