2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1956 Ford Prefect
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1956 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 737 kg more than 1956 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 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 (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 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 1956 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1956 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Prefect |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 63.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2220 mm |
