2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT convertible
Short review of 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT convertible
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Price as tested: CDN$34155
Just like its sedan silibing, PT convertible receives the 220hp 2.4L DOHC high-output turbo which has 245 lb/ft of torque. With this much of power on front wheels, it got some torque steer when accelerating especially on a rainy day. This engine is surprisingly refined while providing the responsiveness and flexability that the PT desperately needed in day 1.
In terms of the top itself, it got a few cowl shakes as I pushed through the slalom. Chrysler should be able to make the structure stiffer considered PT costs 34k, which the same amount of money can get you into a more solidly built Beetle convertible. Another sad fact is the when the roof is up, the visibility is limited because of the thick C-pillars.
Its handling is similar to sedan silibing with responsive but somewhat numb steering, lots of safe understeer and plenty of body rolls.
Convertible can serve as a halo vehicle for PT as its sales starts to drop. Its interesting to see how it matches with Beetle and upcoming Mini convertibles.
Overall rating: 3.5/5