2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 813 kg more than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 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 (311 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 171 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 | 1613 kg | 800 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 34 L |
