2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1982 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1982 Toyota Starlet. (57 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1982 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 661 kg more than 1982 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Toyota Starlet 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 1982 Toyota Starlet. 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 (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Toyota Starlet. (91 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1982 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2310 mm |
