2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1983 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 331 kg more than 1983 Ford Tempo. 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, 1983 Ford Tempo (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1983 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1983 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1983 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2540 mm |
