1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1970 De Tomaso Pantera
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 36 kg more than 1970 De Tomaso Pantera.
Because 1970 De Tomaso Pantera 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 1970 De Tomaso Pantera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1970 De Tomaso Pantera (491 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1970 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1970 De Tomaso Pantera | |
| Make | Chrysler | De Tomaso |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Pantera |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 491 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
