2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1977 Plymouth Volare

To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1977 Plymouth Volare. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1977 Plymouth Volare. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 47 kg more than 1977 Plymouth Volare. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1977 Plymouth Volare 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 1977 Plymouth Volare. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Plymouth Volare. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Plymouth Volare.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1977 Plymouth Volare
Make Chrysler Plymouth
Model PT Cruiser Volare
Year Released 2002 1977
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2147 cc 3687 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 119 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 4150 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 1600 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1535 kg 1488 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 5120 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2870 mm