2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Dodge Spirit
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Spirit (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 125 kg more than 1988 Dodge Spirit.
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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit 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 | 1988 Dodge Spirit | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Spirit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
