2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Honda Accord
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 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Accord 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 84 more horse power than 1996 Honda Accord. (131 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 205 kg more than 1996 Honda Accord. 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 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Accord. (178 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Accord. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1996 Honda Accord 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 | 1996 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Chrysler | Honda |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Accord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
