2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1963 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1963 Ford Zodiac. (108 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1963 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 435 kg more than 1963 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Ford Zodiac. (191 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1963 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
