2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,408 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Opel Ascona (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 359 kg more than 1979 Opel Ascona.
Because 1979 Opel Ascona 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 1979 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1979 Opel Ascona (210 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1979 Opel Ascona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2408 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.5 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
