2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Ford Escort
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1978 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 648 kg more than 1978 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Escort 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 1978 Ford Escort. 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 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Ford Escort | |
Make | Chrysler | Ford |
Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2148 cc | 938 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 45 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 60 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 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 | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 910 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 53 L |