2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1958 Jeep CJ
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Jeep CJ 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 @ 5000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1958 Jeep CJ. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1958 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 475 kg more than 1958 Jeep CJ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Jeep CJ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 Jeep CJ will offer significantly more control. 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 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Jeep CJ. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Jeep CJ. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1958 Jeep CJ has manual transmission. 1958 Jeep CJ 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 | 1958 Jeep CJ | |
| Make | Chrysler | Jeep |
| Model | PT Cruiser | CJ |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2060 mm |
