2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer 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 639 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. 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 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 85 L |
