2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1983 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 128 kg more than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1983 Ford Fairlane 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 1983 Ford Fairlane. 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (326 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fairlane. 1983 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1983 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2950 mm |
