1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 521 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 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 85 L |
