2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 428 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
