1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1971 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chrysler Centura 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 31 more horse power than 1971 Chrysler Centura. (119 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1971 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 303 kg more than 1971 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Chrysler Centura. 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chrysler Centura.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1971 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Centura |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 119 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
