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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus 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 249 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.

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, 1998 Ford Focus (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus 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 1998 Ford Focus
Make Chrysler Ford
Model PT Cruiser Focus
Year Released 2009 1998
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1753 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 114 HP 131 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 157 Nm 174 Nm
Torque RPM 4550 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 77 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.8 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 19.4:1
Top Speed 176 km/hour 184 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 13.5 seconds 12.8 seconds
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1441 kg 1192 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 53 L