2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Honda Accord
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 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,602 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 551 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Chrysler | Honda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Accord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
