2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 271 kg more than 1997 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 (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
