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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 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. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 116 kg more than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird.
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 | 2498 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 96.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1448 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 80 L |
