2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1963 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1963 Ford Zodiac. (108 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1963 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 173 kg more than 1963 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 Ford Zodiac. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Ford Zodiac. (191 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Ford Zodiac. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1963 Ford Zodiac has manual transmission. 1963 Ford Zodiac will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1963 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
