2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird
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 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 169 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Thunderbird 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 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1988 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Thunderbird 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 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 86 mm |
| 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 | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
