2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1981 Nissan Silvia
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 Nissan Silvia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Silvia would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Silvia. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Silvia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 900 kg more than 1981 Nissan Silvia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Silvia 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 Nissan Silvia. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Silvia. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Silvia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1981 Nissan Silvia | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Silvia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
