2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Plymouth Volare
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1980 Plymouth Volare. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1980 Plymouth Volare. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Plymouth Volare weights approximately 24 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1980 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 1980 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, 1980 Plymouth Volare (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1980 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 | 1980 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Chrysler | Plymouth |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Volare |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
