2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Ford Probe
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 Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 475 kg more than 1996 Ford Probe. 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 (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Probe |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 58 L |
