2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Ford Falcon
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 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,271 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1979 Ford Falcon. (129 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 493 kg more than 1979 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. 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, 1979 Ford Falcon (263 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Ford Falcon | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Falcon |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
