2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1987 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1987 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 191 kg more than 1987 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Ford Mustang 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 1987 Ford Mustang. 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, 1987 Ford Mustang (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Mustang 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 | 1987 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
