2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1988 Pontiac Firebird 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 1988 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1988 Pontiac Firebird (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Firebird 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 | 1988 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2827 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
