2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari weights approximately 429 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 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari 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 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari. 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, 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari (319 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1977 Pontiac Grand Safari | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Grand Safari |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2950 mm |
