2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Citroen ZX
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Citroen ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Citroen ZX would be higher. At 2,425 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 141 more horse power than 1996 Citroen ZX. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 487 kg more than 1996 Citroen ZX. 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 (332 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen ZX. (111 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen ZX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Citroen ZX | |
| Make | Chrysler | Citroen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | ZX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1015 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1460 mm |
