2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Chrysler Centura
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 Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Chrysler Centura (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Chrysler Centura should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 325 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura.
Because 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 Centura. 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 Centura (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Centura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Centura |
| 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 | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
