2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Toyota Corolla
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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Toyota Corolla 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 153 more horse power than 1973 Toyota Corolla. (62 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 685 kg more than 1973 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Toyota Corolla 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 Toyota Corolla. 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 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Toyota Corolla. (94 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 75 L |
