2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Datsun Laurel
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 Datsun Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun Laurel would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Datsun Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Datsun Laurel (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Datsun Laurel should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun Laurel weights approximately 334 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Datsun 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 Datsun Laurel. 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 Datsun Laurel (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1973 Datsun Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Datsun Laurel | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.5 seconds | 13.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
