2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry 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 61 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 561 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 1981 Nissan Cherry 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. 1981 Nissan Cherry will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
