1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2001 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 3 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 516 kg more than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Suzuki Samurai 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, 2001 Suzuki Samurai 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, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2001 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 2001 Suzuki Samurai 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 | 2001 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Chrysler | Suzuki |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
