2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Ford Fairlane
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 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Ford Fairlane (212 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 174 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Ford Fairlane 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 Ford Fairlane. 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 Ford Fairlane (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1973 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1973 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 101.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2950 mm |
