1998 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 334 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (189 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Prizm | 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Chrysler |
| Model | Prizm | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1424 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
