Chrysler PT Cruiser 0-60 times

The Chrysler PT Cruiser was an instant success when it debuted in 2001. Its retro and panel-van styling caused quite a buzz. The vehicle retained its versatility and utility for the next ten years. However, the hype behind it didn’t last as long. Other manufacturers went ahead to introduce smarter and better-looking wagons and hatchbacks that stole the PT’s spotlight. For now, it remains a respectable choice for a used car.

The 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser comes with either of the two powertrains: a 2.4-liter inline-4 that generates 167 pound-feet of torque and 150 horsepower or a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-4 that churns 210 pound-feet of torque and 180 horsepower.

The car is no performer, especially the convertible. The 150-hp inline-4 is great for town cruising but performs weakly on hills and highways. According to Edmunds, the engine leaves the car feeling lifeless. The turbocharged version accelerates decently but performance is compromised due to the additional weight in the convertible. The engine is mounted on a standard 5-speed manual transmission which gets the car from 0 to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds. The accompanying gearbox responds rapidly and performs well for a vehicle with a foot-long shifter and longer-throw gate. A 4-speed-automatic transmission is available as an option. It’s responsive but slower and lurches during downshifts. EPA ratings for the manual Chrysler PT Cruiser stand at 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The automatic boasts 19/24 scores. The 2008 model features the same chassis found in the Plymouth Neon and the Old Dodge.

The Base PT depicts sedan-like handling. It’s nimble but confident. It also feels heavy in hard and quick maneuvers. All trims handle bumps well and the convertible has little to no body flex. The wagon can sometimes negotiate corners with remarkable speed. There’s a good grip in general when riding on 16- or 17-inch tires. According to Edmunds, steering is easy and the ride is smooth and composed. Trim levels available for the retro-styled 2008, 5-passenger, Chrysler PT Cruiser include the Touring, Limited and LX. An awkward PT Cruiser Convertible adds onto the standard wagon list. Generally, the vehicle offers very little maintenance problems.

There’s a good combination of modern features, efficiency, performance, and American iron. Elements of a wagon, SUV, minivan, and sedan have been mixed to offer buyers a car that resembles panel trucks from the 1930s with styling from the 50s. The convertible comes with a 2-door side view that connects to a roll hoop that helps to tie the body and make it rigid enough. The retro-styling doesn’t stop on the outside. The interior is stylishly modern and keeps its occupants’ state of mind in the good ol’ days.

The PT Cruiser offers utility like no other vehicle. It handles quite well and provides an entertaining drive. It’s also better than most compact crossovers. The only downsides are its poor fuel economy and apathetic acceleration. Its style is also stale when compared to modern wagons and hatchbacks. The convertible offers a good pick for a stylish and affordable drop top, nevertheless.
 

William Mutugi