2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Ford Probe
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 Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,428 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 280 kg more than 1997 Ford Probe. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Probe |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2428 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1320 mm |
