2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
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 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 4 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 343 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 80 L |
