2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1971 AC 428

To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 72 kg more than 1971 AC 428.

Because 1971 AC 428 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 1971 AC 428. 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, 1971 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1971 AC 428 has automatic transmission and 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1971 AC 428
Make Chrysler AC
Model PT Cruiser 428
Year Released 2003 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2425 cc 7003 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 298 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 332 Nm 639 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 2800 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1502 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2640 mm 2450 mm