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.
Vehicle: 2004 Chrylser PT Cruiser with 4-speed auto tranny and ABS
Performance: The light-pressure turbo Cruiser is positioned between the underwhelming non-turbo version and powerful high-output turbo version. This light-pressure unit provides far better performance than the base car which is more suitable for most daily driver’s needs than the high-output version. There is no turbo lag. The turbo spools up quickly and seemlessly as I floored the responsive throttle. The engine is surprisingly smooth and refine, without the noisy character of the base motor. The 4-speed automatic also works relatively well with this engine. It provides decent ratios and willing to up/downshifts. In short, a more linear turbo delivery than high-output turbo and better respose than lowly base motor.
Handling: The PT provides another pleasant surprise through corners. The chassis provides decent feedback thanks to high stiffness and rigidty. There are certain amount of body rolls and understeer when pushed, however, they are all under very well-tempted. While I feel the steering is a bit numb on center, it provides more than adequate feel off-center. Steering response is quick and sharp. If Chrysler is able to dial up more steering feel on center, just like what they did to the high-output Cruiser, this car would feel even better on twisties. On the other hand, there is no torque steer pushed through the front wheels like I felt on the GT Cruiser. In terms of ride comfort, PT again ranks against the best in its class
Brakes: The front discs/rear drums with optional ABS provides good pedal feel. The pedal itself feels solid and easily modulated. The effort is balanced and well-controlled. However, Chrysler should make ABS standard across the board instead of only on PT HOP Turbo given the price they are charging for this ride.
Interior: Inside its the same old PT Cruiser. The seating position feels like on top of the car instead of inside. The power windows beside the air vents still need a home on the door panels, same goes for the switches placed down below on the back. The leather seats are comfortable despite it needs more thigh support.
Conclusion: This 150hp “mid level” engine really does provide what most PT Cruiser buyers needed. A decent enough performance without the sluggishness of base car and rocket feel of GT Cruiser. It worths every pennies over the base car if you are shopping for a practical vehicle with decent engine.