2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ford Mustang (173 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 180 kg more than 1981 Ford Mustang.
Because 1981 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 1981 Ford Mustang. 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, 1981 Ford Mustang (332 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Ford Mustang | |
Make | Chrysler | Ford |
Model | PT Cruiser | Mustang |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2147 cc | 4942 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 332 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1355 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 |