2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Renault 12
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 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 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 61 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 541 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Renault |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 56 L |
