2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Cherry 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 (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1069 kg more than 1978 Nissan Cherry. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Cherry. (65 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 804 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
