2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1968 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort 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 @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 581 kg more than 1968 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Ford Escort 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 1968 Ford Escort. 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (101 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1968 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1968 Ford Escort 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 | 1968 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
