2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
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 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 323 kg more than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
