2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1976 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. (135 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 7 kg more than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1976 Ford Thunderbird 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 1976 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird 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 | 1976 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 317 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
