1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1999 Renault Spider
To start off, 1999 Renault Spider is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Spider (296 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Spider should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 450 kg more than 1999 Renault Spider.
Because 1999 Renault Spider 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 1999 Renault Spider. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1999 Renault Spider (340 Nm @ 3120 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Spider 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 1999 Renault Spider has manual transmission. 1999 Renault Spider 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 | 1999 Renault Spider | |
Make | Chrysler | Renault |
Model | PT Cruiser | Spider |
Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 296 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3120 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 996 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3800 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2350 mm |