2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2002 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 555 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 2002 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 2002 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Solstice 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 | 2002 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
