2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 561 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Because 1972 Datsun 240Z 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 1972 Datsun 240Z. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Chrysler | Datsun |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
