2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP) has 156 more horse power than 1980 Toyota Corolla. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 617 kg more than 1980 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Toyota Corolla 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 1980 Toyota Corolla. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Toyota Corolla. (93 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 46 L |
