2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1982 Dodge Mirada
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Dodge Mirada (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Dodge Mirada should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Dodge Mirada weights approximately 71 kg more than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Dodge Mirada 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 1982 Dodge Mirada. 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, 1982 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1982 Dodge Mirada 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 | 1982 Dodge Mirada | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Mirada |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 5210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2870 mm |
