1961 Bristol 406 vs. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 48 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 2,216 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Bristol 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1961 Bristol 406. (92 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1961 Bristol 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 181 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, 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, 1961 Bristol 406 (174 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1961 Bristol 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Bristol 406 | 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Bristol | Chrysler |
| Model | 406 | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2216 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.6 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1441 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 81 L | 57 L |
