2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1962 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1962 Ford Cortina. (48 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1962 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 663 kg more than 1962 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Ford Cortina 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 1962 Ford Cortina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Ford Cortina. (90 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1962 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 58.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 778 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 36 L |
