2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 420 kg more than 1978 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Mustang 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 1978 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
