1996 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 624 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Cavalier | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 2397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 57 L |
