2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1961 Lancia Appia

To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lancia Appia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lancia Appia 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 160 more horse power than 1961 Lancia Appia. (55 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1961 Lancia Appia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 697 kg more than 1961 Lancia Appia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1961 Lancia Appia 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 1961 Lancia Appia. 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 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Lancia Appia. (87 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Lancia Appia.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1961 Lancia Appia
Make Chrysler Lancia
Model PT Cruiser Appia
Year Released 2003 1961
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2425 cc 1090 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 55 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4900 RPM
Torque 332 Nm 87 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.6 mm 68 mm
Engine Stroke Size 101.4 mm 75 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.1:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1502 kg 805 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1430 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1250 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 75 L 42 L