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Pontiac Vibe vs. Chrysler PT Cruiser Review

How the Pontiac Vibe stacks up against the Chrysler PT Cruiser - by Nigel Cooper, Topanga CA
2010 Pontiac Vibe
Price Range: $16,100 - $20,875
2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Price Range: $18,000 - $24,510
Pontiac Vibe vs. Chrysler PT Cruiser Review

Cost
The Chrysler PT Cruiser is substantially more expensive than the Pontiac Vibe regarding MSRP.

Utility
The Chrysler's larger trunk will accommodate more big objects than the Pontiac. The Pontiac outpulls the Chrysler PT Cruiser by a sizeable margin.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Pontiac Vibe offers a bit more head- and leg-room than the Chrysler PT Cruiser, there really isn't much of a difference. The Chrysler PT Cruiser is not particularly roomier for your passengers than the Pontiac Vibe.

Dimensions
The Chrysler PT Cruiser is likely to feel slightly sluggish because of its high horsepower-to-weight ratio. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Chrysler than the Pontiac Vibe because of its more capacious tank. The Pontiac Vibe rides lower than the Chrysler PT Cruiser, which is a good thing for its center of gravity and ease of access.

Performance
The Chrysler PT Cruiser is likely to feel somewhat sluggish because of its high horsepower-to-weight ratio.

Handling
With its tighter turning radius, the Vibe is doubtless more maneuverable, something to consider if you do a lot of city driving; however, remember that a vehicle with a tight turning circle may feel a bit twitchy on the highway.

Drivetrain
The Pontiac Vibe's engine is markedly smaller than the Chrysler PT Cruiser's. Remember that smaller engines can be stressed more; on the flip side, smaller engines typically get better gas mileage. The Pontiac Vibe could learn a lesson or two from the Chrysler PT Cruiser regarding pickup. Torque equals pickup, and the PT Cruiser will have picked up and gone by the time the Pontiac Vibe finally gets moving.

Overview
The Chrysler PT Cruiser and the Pontiac Vibe have the same basic warranty. With respect to warranty against corrosion, the Pontiac Vibe has considerably better coverage than the Chrysler.

Other
The Chrysler PT Cruiser emits fewer smog-forming pollutants per 15,000 miles than the Pontiac Vibe.

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