2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1989 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 15 kg more than 1989 Chrysler Viper.
Because 1989 Chrysler Viper 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 1989 Chrysler Viper. 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, 1989 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 407 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Chrysler Viper 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 | 1989 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Viper |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 621 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
