1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 14 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 12 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
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 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Sonic has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chevrolet |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 46 L |
