2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Chrysler Avenger
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Chrysler Avenger 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 (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1979 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 531 kg more than 1979 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Chrysler Avenger 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 1979 Chrysler Avenger. 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 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Chrysler Avenger. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1979 Chrysler Avenger has manual transmission. 1979 Chrysler Avenger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Chrysler Avenger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Avenger |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
