2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1988 Holden Commodore. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 649 kg more than 1988 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 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, 1988 Holden Commodore (292 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1988 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 | 1988 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Chrysler | Holden |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
