2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 23 kg more than 1996 Chrysler Viper.
Because 1996 Chrysler Viper 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 Chrysler Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm). This means 1996 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | Chrysler | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Viper |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
