2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Tercel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Tercel would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (62 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Tercel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 650 kg more than 1978 Toyota Tercel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Tercel. (102 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Tercel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Tercel |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
