2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1989 Nissan Laurel
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 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Laurel (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 211 kg more than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. 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 Nissan Laurel (171 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1989 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Chrysler | Nissan |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Laurel |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
