2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Dodge Aspen
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (113 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 405 kg more than 1978 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1978 Dodge Aspen (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1978 Dodge Aspen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Dodge Aspen | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Aspen |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
