2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1988 Toyota Carina. (72 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 405 kg more than 1988 Toyota Carina. 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota Carina. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota Carina. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1988 Toyota Carina has manual transmission. 1988 Toyota Carina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Carina |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1974 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2540 mm |
