1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra 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 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 76 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 318 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. 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 2003 Opel Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 52 L |
