2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Datsun Violet
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Datsun Violet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Datsun Violet would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1976 Datsun Violet. (62 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Datsun Violet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 720 kg more than 1976 Datsun Violet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Datsun Violet 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 Datsun Violet. 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Datsun Violet. (99 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Datsun Violet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Datsun Violet | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Violet |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 50 L |
