2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Mustang weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Mustang 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 2004 Ford Mustang. 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, 2004 Ford Mustang (434 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 2004 Ford Mustang has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Mustang will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2004 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |
