2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1959 Ford Prefect
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Prefect 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 177 more horse power than 1959 Ford Prefect. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 705 kg more than 1959 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 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 (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Prefect. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Prefect. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1959 Ford Prefect has manual transmission. 1959 Ford Prefect 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 | 1959 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Prefect |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
