2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Chrysler Valiant
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (163 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler Valiant 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 138 kg more than 1976 Chrysler Valiant.
Because 1976 Chrysler Valiant 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 1976 Chrysler Valiant. 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, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (326 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1976 Chrysler Valiant 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 | 1976 Chrysler Valiant | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Valiant |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2146 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
