2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 343 kg more than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Pontiac Firebird 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (563 Nm) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 7462 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 563 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 105.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 106.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 76 L |
