2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Chrysler 160

To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler 160. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler 160 would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler 160 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler 160. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler 160. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 326 kg more than 1973 Chrysler 160. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Chrysler 160 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 Chrysler 160. 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, 1973 Chrysler 160 (163 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler 160 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1973 Chrysler 160 has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chrysler 160 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1973 Chrysler 160
Make Chrysler Chrysler
Model PT Cruiser 160
Year Released 2009 1973
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1981 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 157 Nm 163 Nm
Torque RPM 4550 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 77 mm 91.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.8 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1441 kg 1115 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2680 mm