2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 595 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort 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 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
