2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1958 Ford 17
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 17 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1958 Ford 17. (59 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 498 kg more than 1958 Ford 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Ford 17 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 1958 Ford 17. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (311 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Ford 17. (129 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1958 Ford 17 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 17 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 7.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1115 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
