2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1961 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 220 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1961 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
