2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2009 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 82 kg more than 2009 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Chrysler | Pontiac |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Solstice |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 49 L |
