2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Toyota Starlet
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 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Starlet. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 651 kg more than 1996 Toyota Starlet. 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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Starlet. (101 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
