2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Dodge Aspen
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 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (181 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 388 kg more than 1976 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Dodge Aspen | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Aspen |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
