2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
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 Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 2,835 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix (129 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Grand Prix (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
