2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (87 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 36 kg more than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1982 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 1982 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1982 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. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1436 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 80 L |
