2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Plymouth Volare
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 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1978 Plymouth Volare. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Plymouth Volare. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 425 kg more than 1978 Plymouth Volare. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Plymouth Volare 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 1978 Plymouth Volare. 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, 1978 Plymouth Volare (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Plymouth Volare 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 | 1978 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Chrysler | Plymouth |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Volare |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
