2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Chrysler Charger
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Charger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Charger would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Charger. (163 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Charger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 172 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Charger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Charger 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 1973 Chrysler Charger. 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Charger. (318 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Charger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Chrysler Charger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Charger |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
