2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1981 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 11 kg more than 1981 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Buick Century 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 1981 Buick Century. 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, 1981 Buick Century (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1981 Buick Century 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 | 1981 Buick Century | |
| Make | Chrysler | Buick |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Century |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
