2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1977 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Ford Cortina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Ford Cortina (123 HP @ 3700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Ford Cortina should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 733 kg more than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Because 1977 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 1977 Ford Cortina. 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (289 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1977 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 289 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2580 mm |
