2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 112 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
