I hear that Hondas and Toyotas are likely the best common variety cars on the road. How do Chrysler PT CRUISERS compare? I like the 40's styling of them but how good are the engines, etc?
I won't ask my Chrysler dealer obviously or a PT Cruiser fans chat board.

Os

My wife and I are looking at the PT Cruiser as well. IIRC, there were problems with either the 2003 or 2004 model that contributed to fires, but that was reportedly fixed. The guys at Car Talk like the Cruiser and most of the other stuff I've seen is generally positive although I wish there were some more interesting color choices - I think it'd look fantastic in a nice bright yellow... Google PT Cruiser review and you'll get a ton of hits.

Mark Snyder
Seoul, Korea

Thanks for telling me, I did'nt know about the reviews. I've only searched PT Cruiser. Saw some reviews already.
Be nice if one of the major manufacturers rereleased a totally vintage looking car but with updated tecnology like a 48 Packard, a Studebaker Land Cruiser or similar car.
Os

GM is coming out with its own PT Cruiser called the HHR (for Heritage High Roof)

Yuk, this thing has none of the character the PT Cruiser has...

http://www.trucktrend.com/future/spied/112_2006fvf/index1.html

I liked the retro look of the new Ford Thunderbird but I thought it was way overpriced once I got to see one in person. I'm not sold on the 2005 Mustang either (something in the proportions bugs me, and the interior seemed pretty cramped and plastic-y) although it definately seems to be priced well.

Mark Snyder
Seoul, Korea

Yuk, this thing has none of the character the PT Cruiser has...

http://www.trucktrend.com/future/spied/112_2006fvf/index1.html

I liked the retro look of the new Ford Thunderbird but I thought it was way overpriced once I got to see one in person. I'm not sold on the 2005 Mustang either (something in the proportions bugs me, and the interior seemed pretty cramped and plastic-y) although it definately seems to be priced well.
Mark Snyder
Seoul, Korea

But at least there is some resembalance with to 05 Stang to the Mustangs of past. The new Charger from Dodge just looks like any other new product they're coming out with nowadays. I thought GM would do something a little retro on the GTO but that didn't materialize, now with the marques Chevelle and Camaro being bantered around for an upcoming car, can't wait for that one. :eek: rr

Just saw a pic of the HHR. I like the Cruiser more.

Os

I have a 2003 PT and it is awesome!! I have the standard non-turbo 5 speed.
http://photos.hobbytalk.com/data/519/2333PT_small.jpg

It is a VERY comfortable car to drive in, carries a LOT of stuff, gets a lot of attention!

Marty

I hope I can get the model with the verticle slatted grill.

Os

Unless something has changed quite recently, the PT Cruiser is retro styling wrapped around what is essentially a Dodge Neon, mechanically. Make of that what you will.

Qapla'

SSB

Unless something has changed quite recently, the PT Cruiser is retro styling wrapped around what is essentially a Dodge Neon, mechanically. Make of that what you will.

Qapla'

SSB
The initial design started out on a Neon platform but was changed. I don't think there are many, if any at all, parts that interchange.

Damnnear/Chrysler uses parts from their parts bin taht interchange on a lot of their cars. All car companies do that.

Marty

PT Cruiser was just named Chrysler's most reliable car.

I've owned a PT for almost a year. So far I'm very happy. One of the reasons I bought it was because of the high ratings Consumer Reports gave it on reliability and customer satisfaction.

Downside: For it's size it doesn't get the gas mileage you'd expect. But other than that I have no complaints.

I've owned a PT for almost a year. So far I'm very happy. One of the reasons I bought it was because of the high ratings Consumer Reports gave it on reliability and customer satisfaction.

Downside: For it's size it doesn't get the gas mileage you'd expect. But other than that I have no complaints.

What kind of mileage are you getting? Mine gets 29 - 31mpg consistantly. The best I have gotten is 35mpg.

Marty

Gotta admit that I've never actually figured my mpg. But the window sticker said it only got 21mpg city; 28 highway. And I figure those stats are under perfect conditions.

My Suburban averages about 17 miles per gallon. I would hoped the 4 cylinder PT would do better than 21-28. Seems I'm always filling it up!

35! Have you got a Turbo or messed with the air intake? Of course I live in California where they really strap on the smog devises - maybe that's the problem.

Gotta admit that I've never actually figured my mpg. But the window sticker said it only got 21mpg city; 28 highway. And I figure those stats are under perfect conditions.

My Suburban averages about 17 miles per gallon. I would hoped the 4 cylinder PT would do better than 21-28. Seems I'm always filling it up!

35! Have you got a Turbo or messed with the air intake? Of course I live in California where they really strap on the smog devises - maybe that's the problem.

What I have is a standard engine with a 5 speed manual trans. The 35mpg was obtained on a trip of all expressway traveling.

Marty