2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Pontiac 1000
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 666 kg more than 1981 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Pontiac 1000 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 1981 Pontiac 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Pontiac 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Pontiac 1000 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
