2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (113 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1980 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 64.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
