2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Ford Escort
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 Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (131 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 259 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (172 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
