2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Ford Crown Victoria
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Crown Victoria. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Crown Victoria would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Ford Crown Victoria is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1978 Ford Crown Victoria. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Crown Victoria. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Ford Crown Victoria weights approximately 237 kg more than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1978 Ford Crown Victoria 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 1978 Ford Crown Victoria. 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, 1978 Ford Crown Victoria (302 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (285 Nm). This means 1978 Ford Crown Victoria will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Ford Crown Victoria | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Crown Victoria |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1644 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2910 mm |
