2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Chrysler Avenger
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chrysler Avenger 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 80 more horse power than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 545 kg more than 1980 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 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 (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 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 1980 Chrysler Avenger. 1980 Chrysler Avenger has automatic transmission and 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chrysler Avenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Chrysler Avenger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Avenger |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
