2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1965 Pontiac Catalina
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Pontiac Catalina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Pontiac Catalina would be higher. At 6,891 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 Pontiac Catalina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Pontiac Catalina (376 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 Pontiac Catalina should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Pontiac Catalina weights approximately 321 kg more than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Pontiac Catalina 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 1965 Pontiac Catalina. 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, 1965 Pontiac Catalina (625 Nm) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (285 Nm). This means 1965 Pontiac Catalina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1965 Pontiac Catalina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Catalina |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 6891 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 625 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 103.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3080 mm |
