2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (98 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 291 kg more than 1973 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Nissan Laurel. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
