2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
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 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (182 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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 74 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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 | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mitsubishi |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Challenger |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1836 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |
