2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1991 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 19 kg more than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Ford Thunderbird 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 1991 Ford Thunderbird. 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1991 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 96.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
