2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1956 Ford Escort
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1956 Ford Escort. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 548 kg more than 1956 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Ford Escort 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 1956 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Ford Escort. (72 Nm @ 2150 RPM). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1956 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 817 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 31 L |
