2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Holden Commodore
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 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1980 Holden Commodore. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 613 kg more than 1980 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. 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, 1980 Holden Commodore (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Holden Commodore 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 | 1980 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chrysler | Holden |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
