2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1961 Chrysler Imperial
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chrysler Imperial. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chrysler Imperial would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (276 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 487 kg more than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Chrysler Imperial 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 Chrysler Imperial. 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, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1961 Chrysler Imperial | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Imperial |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5802 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 2360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 6170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3800 mm |
