2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Toyota Carina
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 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota Carina 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 35 more horse power than 1998 Toyota Carina. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 445 kg more than 1998 Toyota Carina. 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Toyota Carina. (150 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1998 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Chrysler | Toyota |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Carina |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2427 cc | 1762 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
