2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
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 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 81 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (139 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 Pontiac Trans Am. 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 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (189 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2750 mm |
