2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1983 Ford Fairlane
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 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (131 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 219 kg more than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1983 Ford Fairlane 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 1983 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1983 Ford Fairlane (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1983 Ford Fairlane 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. 1983 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1983 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4092 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2950 mm |
