2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1954 Ford Prefect
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1954 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 600 kg more than 1954 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Ford Prefect 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 1954 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2150 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1954 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Prefect |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 63.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2220 mm |
