2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Jeep Wrangler

To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (116 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 19 kg more than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (185 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 1997 Jeep Wrangler
Make Chrysler Jeep
Model PT Cruiser Wrangler
Year Released 2008 1997
Body Type Convertible SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2429 cc 2464 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 150 HP 116 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 214 Nm 185 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 98.3 mm
Engine Stroke Size 101 mm 81 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1411 kg 1430 kg
Vehicle Length 5010 mm 3860 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1790 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2380 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 57 L