1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Plymouth Barracuda
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Plymouth Barracuda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Plymouth Barracuda would be higher. At 3,686 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Plymouth Barracuda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1973 Plymouth Barracuda. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Plymouth Barracuda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 41 kg more than 1973 Plymouth Barracuda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Plymouth Barracuda 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 Plymouth Barracuda. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1973 Plymouth Barracuda (251 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Plymouth Barracuda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Plymouth Barracuda | |
| Make | Chrysler | Plymouth |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Barracuda |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 104.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
