2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,269 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (108 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 374 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 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, 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass (279 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 | 1974 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Chrysler | Oldsmobile |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4269 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2850 mm |
