2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1959 Ford 17M
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 17M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 17M would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1959 Ford 17M. (59 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 17M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 703 kg more than 1959 Ford 17M. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Ford 17M 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 1959 Ford 17M. 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 (224 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford 17M. (120 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford 17M.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1959 Ford 17M | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 17M |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
