1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1970 Ford 17
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 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford 17 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1970 Ford 17. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 343 kg more than 1970 Ford 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Ford 17 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 Ford 17. 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford 17. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1970 Ford 17 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 17 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 87 L |
