2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1963 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1963 Ford Cortina. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1963 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 585 kg more than 1963 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 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 (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Ford Cortina. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1963 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 72.8 mm |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 45 L |
