2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Ford Ka
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 630 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. 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 (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Ka |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
