2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
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 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 418 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. 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 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Chrysler | TVR |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 57 L |
