1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2002 Ford Focus
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 4 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 42 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 282 kg more than 2002 Ford Focus. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Focus. (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Focus. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Focus 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 | 2002 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
