1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,342 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (201 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 80 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (355 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chevrolet |
| Model | Valiant | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4342 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2685 mm |
