2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2003 Ford Econovan
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2003 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Ford Econovan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Econovan 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 2003 Ford Econovan. 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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Econovan. (139 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2003 Ford Econovan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Econovan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2210 mm |
