2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Dodge Charger
To start off, 2009 Dodge Charger is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Charger (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Charger should accelerate faster than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Charger weights approximately 281 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 2009 Dodge Charger 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 2009 Dodge Charger. 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, 2009 Dodge Charger (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2009 Dodge Charger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Dodge |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Charger |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 3518 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3050 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 68 L |
