2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Nissan Laurel
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 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Nissan Laurel 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 52 more horse power than 1976 Nissan Laurel. (98 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 500 kg more than 1976 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Nissan Laurel. (169 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
