2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (142 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 830 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1390 mm |
