1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 6 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 467 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 322 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 560 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 617 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1446 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 98 L |
