1961 Bristol 406 vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Bristol 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Bristol 406 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1961 Bristol 406. (92 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1961 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 245 kg more than 1961 Bristol 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Bristol 406 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 1961 Bristol 406. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Bristol 406. (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Bristol 406. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1961 Bristol 406 has manual transmission. 1961 Bristol 406 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 406 | 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Bristol | Chrysler |
| Model | 406 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.6 mm | 101.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 60 L |
