2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,427 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 6 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 744 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Focus |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
