2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1972 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,427 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1972 Ford Escort. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 705 kg more than 1972 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Ford Escort. 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 (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Escort. (146 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1972 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
