2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Ford Laser
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 Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Laser would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1980 Ford Laser. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 794 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser. 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Laser. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Laser. 1980 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Laser |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2370 mm |
