2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Ford Granada
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Granada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (68 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 135 kg more than 1981 Ford Granada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 Granada. 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 (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Granada. (148 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Granada. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Granada has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Granada will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Ford Granada | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Granada |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2780 mm |
