2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1977 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta 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 149 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 745 kg more than 1977 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 (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (94 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1977 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1977 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1977 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2290 mm |
