2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Chrysler 1609
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler 1609 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 @ 5100 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 783 kg more than 1978 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler 1609 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 1978 Chrysler 1609. 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler 1609. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1978 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1978 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Chrysler 1609 | |
Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
Model | PT Cruiser | 1609 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1639 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |