2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
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 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 2,147 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 710 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 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 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2147 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4150 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
