2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1983 Dodge Charger
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Dodge Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Dodge Charger 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 88 more horse power than 1983 Dodge Charger. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1983 Dodge Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 393 kg more than 1983 Dodge Charger. 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 (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Dodge Charger. (117 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Dodge Charger. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1983 Dodge Charger has manual transmission. 1983 Dodge Charger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1983 Dodge Charger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Charger |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 80 L |
