1975 Chrysler Centura vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Chrysler Centura 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 97 more horse power than 1975 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1975 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 390 kg more than 1975 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Chrysler Centura 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 1975 Chrysler Centura. 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 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Chrysler Centura. (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Chrysler Centura. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1975 Chrysler Centura has manual transmission. 1975 Chrysler Centura 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:
| 1975 Chrysler Centura | 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | Centura | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
