2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 5,731 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 122 kg more than 1979 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Thunderbird 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 1979 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1979 Ford Thunderbird (386 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (332 Nm). This means 1979 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1979 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 5731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 386 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1935 kg | 1813 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 80 L |
