2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Toyota Corolla

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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1980 Toyota Corolla. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 988 kg more than 1980 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. 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 (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Toyota Corolla. (105 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Toyota Corolla.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1980 Toyota Corolla
Make Chrysler Toyota
Model PT Cruiser Corolla
Year Released 2006 1980
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2425 cc 1290 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 230 HP 68 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 333 Nm 105 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1873 kg 885 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4110 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1550 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2410 mm