1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 377 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler 1609 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 1976 Chrysler 1609. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (159 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | 1609 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1980 cc | 2425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.7 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 101.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |
