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 5,209 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (227 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 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. 1976 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 159 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 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 (470 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 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 | 1596 cc | 5209 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
