2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 466 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 1970 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
