2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Dodge Mirada
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,209 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Dodge Mirada. (145 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Dodge Mirada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Dodge Mirada weights approximately 142 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1979 Dodge Mirada 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 1979 Dodge Mirada. 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, 1979 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1979 Dodge Mirada 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 | 1979 Dodge Mirada | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Mirada |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2146 cc | 5209 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
