2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1977 Toyota Carina
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 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1977 Toyota Carina. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1977 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 878 kg more than 1977 Toyota Carina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Toyota Carina 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 Toyota Carina. 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Toyota Carina. (147 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1977 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Carina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
