1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2012 Mini Cooper

To start off, 2012 Mini Cooper 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, 2012 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 171 kg more than 2012 Mini Cooper.

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, 2012 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 2012 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2012 Mini Cooper 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 Mini Cooper
Make Chrysler Mini
Model PT Cruiser Cooper
Year Released 1998 2012
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2429 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 181 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 220 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1600 RPM
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1446 kg 1275 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 3734 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1684 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1414 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2466 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 50 L