2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 De Tomaso Pantera
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 De Tomaso Pantera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 De Tomaso Pantera would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 De Tomaso Pantera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 De Tomaso Pantera (350 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 De Tomaso Pantera should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 91 kg more than 1973 De Tomaso Pantera.
Because 1973 De Tomaso Pantera 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 1973 De Tomaso Pantera. 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, 1973 De Tomaso Pantera (525 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1973 De Tomaso Pantera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 De Tomaso Pantera | |
| Make | Chrysler | De Tomaso |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Pantera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 525 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 176 km/hour | 255 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
