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 2,146 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (131 HP @ 5750 RPM). 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 406 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (172 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2146 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
