2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1983 Nissan Laurel
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 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Laurel. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 543 kg more than 1983 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. 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 (301 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Laurel. (162 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Laurel. 1983 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1983 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
