2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Ford Taunus
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 Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1979 Ford Taunus. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 315 kg more than 1979 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Taunus 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 Taunus. 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 (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Taunus. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Ford Taunus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Taunus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 94 L |
