2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Mercury Montego
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercury Montego. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercury Montego would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercury Montego is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1973 Mercury Montego. (96 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercury Montego. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Mercury Montego. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercury Montego 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 1973 Mercury Montego. 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, 1973 Mercury Montego (248 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercury Montego will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Mercury Montego | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercury |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Montego |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 4095 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3010 mm |
