2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Ford Aerostar
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Ford Aerostar. (133 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Aerostar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Aerostar weights approximately 72 kg more than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1996 Ford Aerostar 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 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Ford Aerostar (217 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Aerostar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Ford Aerostar | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Aerostar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3030 mm |
