2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1957 Ford Prefect
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 2,428 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1957 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 915 kg more than 1957 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Ford Prefect 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 1957 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2150 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1957 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Prefect |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 63.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2220 mm |
