2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1960 Ford Zodiac

To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1960 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (151 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1960 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1960 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 429 kg more than 1960 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1960 Ford Zodiac 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 1960 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Ford Zodiac.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1960 Ford Zodiac
Make Chrysler Ford
Model PT Cruiser Zodiac
Year Released 2006 1960
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2425 cc 2552 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 151 HP 76 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 224 Nm 187 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.3 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.6:1 8.9:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1191 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4600 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1520 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 50 L