2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1970 Ford Cortina

To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1970 Ford Cortina. (68 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 669 kg more than 1970 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Ford Cortina 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 1970 Ford Cortina. 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 @ 2400 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford Cortina. (115 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford Cortina.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1970 Ford Cortina
Make Chrysler Ford
Model PT Cruiser Cortina
Year Released 2005 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2429 cc 1599 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 220 HP 68 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 311 Nm 115 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 2600 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.0:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 195 km/hour 148 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1629 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4270 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1550 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2570 mm