1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 33 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (181 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 781 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, 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1976 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
Model | 1609 | PT Cruiser |
Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2429 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 181 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 133 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1873 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |