1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Peugeot 406
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 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Peugeot 406. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 206 kg more than 1996 Peugeot 406. 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Peugeot 406. (130 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Peugeot 406. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Peugeot 406 has manual transmission. 1996 Peugeot 406 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 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Peugeot |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 406 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1618 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
