1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (242 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 504 kg more than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger has manual transmission. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mitsubishi |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |
