2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1989 Ford Probe
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 558 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe. 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, 1989 Ford Probe (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe 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 | 1989 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Probe |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
