2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Opel Commodore (115 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Opel Commodore 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 241 kg more than 1980 Opel Commodore.
Because 1980 Opel 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 1980 Opel Commodore. 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, 1980 Opel Commodore (179 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1980 Opel Commodore 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 | 1980 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
