2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Ford Indigo
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Indigo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Indigo would be higher. At 5,935 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Ford Indigo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Indigo (430 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Indigo should accelerate faster than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 237 kg more than 1996 Ford Indigo.
Because 1996 Ford Indigo is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Ford Indigo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Ford Indigo (549 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Indigo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Ford Indigo | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Indigo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 5935 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 430 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 549 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2090 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2900 mm |
