2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
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 Panoz Esperante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Panoz Esperante would be higher. At 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 306 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 94 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 Panoz Esperante 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 Panoz Esperante. 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 Panoz Esperante (529 Nm) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Chrysler | Panoz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Esperante |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 529 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 59 L |
