2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Ford Ranger
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 Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ranger (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ranger 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 46 kg more than 1997 Ford Ranger.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ranger 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 | 1997 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2840 mm |
