2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 519 kg more than 1978 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Cortina 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 1978 Ford Cortina. 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 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Cortina. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Cortina. 1978 Ford Cortina has automatic transmission and 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Ford Cortina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Ford Cortina | |
Make | Chrysler | Ford |
Model | PT Cruiser | Cortina |
Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |