2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 77 kg more than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer 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, 2004 Ford Explorer 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer 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 2004 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Explorer 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 | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2840 mm |
