2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Opel Commodore. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 308 kg more than 1980 Opel Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Opel Commodore 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 1980 Opel Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Commodore. (179 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1312 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
