2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1968 Ford Escort
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort.
Because 1968 Ford Escort 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 1968 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (67 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1968 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 67 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 41 L |
