Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | PT Cruiser |
| Generation | PT Cruiser |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i 16V (141 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2010 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 100 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 141 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 188 Nm @ 4350 rpm (138.66 lb.-ft. @ 4350 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | ECC |
| Engine displacement | 1996 cm3 (121.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 395 kg (870.83 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2150 l (75.93 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l (15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal) |
| Length | 4290 mm (168.9 in.) |
| Width | 1705 mm (67.13 in.) |
| Height | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2616 mm (102.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16 |
The Chrysler PT Cruiser 2.0i Automatic, produced from 2000 to 2010, represented a significant entry point into the retro-styled PT Cruiser lineup. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to blend distinctive aesthetics with practical functionality and affordability. The PT Cruiser, built on Chrysler’s 1HX0/A3 platform (shared with the Dodge Neon and later the Chrysler Caliber), was a deliberate attempt to recapture the spirit of classic Chrysler vehicles while offering modern convenience. This 2.0-liter variant, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable and easy-to-drive vehicle with a unique appearance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the PT Cruiser 2.0i Automatic is the Chrysler ECC engine, a 1.996-liter (121.8 cubic inch) inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports just before the intake valves. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall efficiency. The 16-valve configuration, combined with a compression ratio of 9.6:1, allowed for a respectable 141 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 188 Nm (138.66 lb-ft) of torque at 4350 rpm. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and convenient operation. This transmission, while not offering the most advanced gear ratios, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. The automatic transmission was a key selling point for buyers prioritizing ease of use over sporty driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0-liter automatic PT Cruiser offered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.2 seconds, and top speed was limited to 103.15 mph. Compared to the available five-speed manual transmission, the automatic resulted in a slight performance decrease due to the inherent power loss within the torque converter and the less aggressive gear ratios. The automatic transmission prioritized smooth shifts and fuel efficiency over rapid acceleration. The power delivery was relatively linear, making it predictable and easy to modulate in city traffic. However, drivers seeking more spirited performance often found the engine lacking in low-end torque, requiring frequent downshifts to maintain momentum when overtaking or climbing hills. The steering was light and responsive, contributing to the vehicle’s overall ease of maneuverability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo with CD player, and basic cloth upholstery. Safety features included dual front airbags and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Optional extras included premium sound systems, upgraded interior trim, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. The PT Cruiser offered a degree of customization, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles with various accessories and packages. The interior design, while functional, was relatively basic, reflecting the vehicle’s price point. The distinctive retro styling extended to the interior, with circular air vents and a generally playful aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The PT Cruiser utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a coil spring suspension in the rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. The vehicle’s relatively high center of gravity and soft suspension settings resulted in noticeable body roll during cornering. The ABS system helped to maintain steering control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The PT Cruiser 2.0i Automatic received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its unique styling and spacious interior, it was often criticized for its lackluster performance and somewhat dated technology. Compared to the more powerful turbocharged and V6 versions of the PT Cruiser, the 2.0-liter automatic offered significantly less performance. However, it provided better fuel economy than the higher-output models. The 2.0-liter engine was generally considered reliable, but the automatic transmission was sometimes prone to issues, particularly with the torque converter. The PT Cruiser’s fuel economy of around 24.5 US mpg combined was competitive for its class at the time.
Legacy
The Chrysler PT Cruiser 2.0i Automatic remains a relatively affordable and accessible vehicle in the used car market. The ECC engine is generally considered durable, but regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues. The automatic transmission should be inspected carefully for signs of wear or damage. While not a performance icon, the PT Cruiser 2.0i Automatic holds a unique place in automotive history as a bold and distinctive vehicle that attempted to blend retro styling with modern practicality. Its enduring appeal lies in its individuality and its ability to stand out from the crowd. Parts availability remains good, making it a relatively easy vehicle to maintain and repair.
