2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fiesta 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 163 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 772 kg more than 1976 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1976 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 65 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 34 L |
