1961 Chrysler Imperial vs. 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chrysler Imperial. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chrysler Imperial would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (276 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 950 kg more than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Chrysler Imperial 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 Chrysler Imperial. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (188 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Chrysler Imperial | 2000 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | Imperial | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5802 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2360 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6170 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3800 mm | 2620 mm |
