2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1123 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1302 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 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1191 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
