2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Ford Aerostar
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Aerostar (143 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Aerostar should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 195 kg more than 1988 Ford Aerostar.
Because 1988 Ford Aerostar 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 1988 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1988 Ford Aerostar (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Aerostar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Ford Aerostar | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Aerostar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3030 mm |
