2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1956 Porsche 356
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 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP) has 156 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 653 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Porsche 356 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 Porsche 356. 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 (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Porsche 356. (110 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Porsche 356. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Porsche |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 356 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
