2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1977 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina 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 (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 763 kg more than 1977 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1977 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
